NTAs: any premium rate phone line will do

Oh that was scary - just logged on and got the closed message but no link - was panicking thinking Scott had fibnally got fed up of us for good. Then refreshed the page and there was the link - phew - thanks Scott - will now go back and read your article.

Scott dear,- so pleased to be the first. Well, well, we did say last night that it was a travesty and a fix. Maybe we are not as stupid as we think, eh ladies?

Karen,- you beat me to first place, but I'll forgive you. I read the article before I posted.

Sorry Eva - I was just so relieved to find you all. Scott - excitable, rabid???? I trust we are still ever so slightly bonkers as well!!

Ooh Scott, closing the page just as I post is not nice!!

What I was going to say, going back to the subject of Lee’s album, is are we sure it’s the Frank Sinatra version of The Best is Yet to Come? My first thought on seeing that title in the list was Clifford T Ward, which would also suit Lee’s voice and would fit in well with the ballady (new word?) feel of the rest of the album. For Ali B and anyone alse to young to remember Clifford T Ward http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a8x-6GAcISA

Scott, as with so much else, I agree with you wholeheartedly. (We're still a little sore about you initially preferring Daniel over Lee, but it's those little foibles that make you you). Anyway, I think all the loppies were irked with the last-minute addition of the phone calls. And call me crass, but I do wonder who profits from those calls? At least in ADWD the money went to CiN. Maybe they mentioned it on ITV last night; I admit I wasn't exactly glued to the screen. Since I'm not paid to watch rubbish, I have the luxury of changing channels or e-mailing friends.

Since I'm obviously in an obstreperous mood, may I add that I have deep reservations about the content of Lee's album. A couple of 'Seventies' tracks I could live with, and I'm glad that there's some new material. But, come on, where's the MT? A huge part of his appeal for me is that he isn't a teeny-bop star. There are enough Justin Timberlakes in the world, and I was hoping for music that would reflect what we thought were his tastes. Where did all this stuff come from? Is it just me?

Sorry, where are my manners -- thanks for the new home, Scott. Glad we have the camels (and questionable automobiles) to travel to our new destination.

Hello All,
Am completely over excited now. Have you all seen this?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WigjpdNNl3A

It is the full video for his new single. I quickly scrolled through your posts to see whether I was repeating what someone else had told you but I didn't see any links. Apologies if you have seen this already!

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=NjkWP-xURj8 This is a version of it being sung by Justin Hayward for all my fellow Moody lovers. I had never heard this song before but it is just lovely, and seems to be more in the style of the other songs on the album than the FS song - only 18 days until we find out in any case.

Hi Scott, and thanks for another smooth migration. I share your cynicism about the lately announced additional phone vote. They were in a position to see what the likely outome of the first vote was and adding the extra stage in a (successful) effort to change that result.

Finally some news ladies, with apologies for the long delay in replying - seems they have been busy doing something or another - cant imagine what!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - but anyway here is the answer to our question of which of his charities Lee would like us to 'adopt' next year - "He would like any extra charity support to be given to Mushroom Theatre Company."

Unless anyone has any objections I was planning to contact Penni Bubb to see how we can best help them. Seems to me that if we coordinate our fundraising activites we can maximise their success, which is surely what we all want.

Thanks for the new site Scott - and I'm another that agrees. i think I may be getting cynical in my old age.

Thanks for the news Shirley, I'm happy to support Mushroom -

And thanks everyone for the links - though I've not had time to listen yet!

Shirley, I can’t believe you’d never heard the song. It was huge in the 70’s & still gets lots of radio play (especially on Wogan). It’s one of my favourite songs. Must admit though I’d never heard Justin Hayward’s version. Very nice.

I’m happy to support the Mushrooms.

Agree with previous comments about NTA. In fact, at the risk of being ostracised for breaking a Loppy commandment, I refused to take part in the phone vote I protest at their blatant & cynical manipulation when the ordinary vote hadn’t gone the way they wanted.

I think it will be good for all of us when the 19th arrives and we can listen and listen and listen to it. But on the other hand,- what will we talk about?
Geri,- have you started packing yet ? You do keep me busy with your fancy words !
Obstreperous ...... according to my thesaurus means: noisy and difficult to control. That sounds just like you !!!!
I think we have to put the TWA voting down to bad experience and just not let ourselves to be tricked into doing the same again.
Lindsey,- you were wise to abstain.

Evening Loppies
Shirley - Thanks for that link, I don't remember ever hearing that song before, but I think it's beautiful and will need the largest ever bucket if it is on THE ALBUM. I can hear Lee singing it and like it much better than FS song of same name.
I'm more than happy to support Mushroom in any way we can.
Thanks to all Loppies for keeping me going this week, with links and news, during my return to work; with the holidays and vertigo I hadn't been for 13 weeks!!! It has been hard to get up and out each morning so I haven't had time to come to the desert. Did you find a suitable volcano this am?
Received a parcel from Carys last weekend and had my own ADWDfest on Sunday much to Ploppy and scollops amusement. "Can't beleive your'e watching that?" and "Shall I tell you who wins?" were just 2 of the comments. The others were rude!
Better stop this ramble, there are videos to watch.
Bye.

Geri - no it isn't just you being obstreperous! I was a bit disappointed too when I saw the play list - also at the general theme of the Heat article that Lee was a pop star in the making. Sure - we'd love to hear more albums but why was there no talk of some of the great parts he'd like to play in musicals? What happened to the "I'm not in this for the fame" comment. Sorry - been a hard week, must be feeling grumpy.

I've been very busy all week, trying to keep up with studies, pack, and perform rituals to ward off evil spirits (like the CO) who might keep the GO from appearing on stage. So you can understand I'm a little grumpy (but gorgeous. Natch) and perhaps as a result of that grumpiness I must say what we know of the album worries me a little. As Sheila says, what about his MT plans -- have they all been scuppered? Don't get me wrong, I love most of the songs I'm familiar with, and an album of love songs sounds fine. For a second album. But wasn't the plan for him to be the new Michael Ball, not the new Michael Jackson (ooh, shudder!)?

Kathleen, I had a little pressie waiting for me tonight when I got home and from the same source as yours (thanks, Carys!). And watching the first episode of ADWD and being reminded of these lofty theatrical ambitions made me wonder what happened. Have they been put on hold, redefined, or scrapped? Scott, we need some serious investigative journalism here. May we prevail upon you to ask the hard questions? Can't think of a better man for the job.

Sorry but I don't like the FS version of the song, scrolled down further and preferred the version Lindsey linked to, then scrolled even further and like the Justin Heywood one even more! Now need to go back and read the rest of your posts.
Btw Scott Thanks once more for the new home, how many have we had now?

Just got chance to listen to all the links - thanks everyone. I've never heard any of the versions on Best is Yet To Come but of all those posted I absolutely love Justin Haywards version. I can imagine the GO's version will be total bucket time. Justin Hayward's Forever Autumn is one of my absolute all time favourites and am getting goosebumps just imagining the GO singing it!!!!! Wonder if he's taking suggestions for his next album!!

I am so looking forward to the CD, but have to agree with Geri, Sheila, and anyone else who's said it, I didn't want him to be a pop star!
I feel quite upset this week, first news of the split with Kerry, none of our business I know, but a bit unsettling, and now the fear that he will take the pop star road.
Of course it's his life, and we all want for him to do whatever makes him happy, I just hope he doesn't change too much from the lovely, modest, sweet natured, and respectful man we've all fallen in love with.

Have any of you read Anna Pickards blog? It's very funny. The comments after were quite amusing too.
Re Lee's album, I think we must all calm down, deep breaths, have a little drinky poos (oh, I see there was no need for the last comment). I have to admit I'm a little hesitant as to the choices of song but I will reserve judgement until I have bought it and played it fifty times at full volume on the 19th Nov. I thought one of the loppy commandments was to have faith in Lee's choices. Fear not! Our hero will not disappoint!

He has chosen his songs to sing
The public will make the tills ring
We will whoop with delight and joy
At the voice of our beautiful boy
To be sure Gonna Make You A Star
Will enable our hero to go far
So clap your hands, sway your hips and think Mead
This CD is all that you need!

I was moaning at ploppy for monopolising the laptop all evening but he has done some work on it and now my connection is superfast so I'm very grateful for once!
Shirley, I guessed that may be the response so it will be interesting to hear what Penny Bubb has to say, happy to give my support.
Re:NTA awards I'm cross with myself for even thinking ADWD might win after all the fiasco over adding a phone vote on he night, should have smelled the rat much earlier!
As usual Scott you put it so succintly (sp?)
Quite like the look of JB's album too, I thought Lee's may be more along those lines?

Well said Debbie!

Anyway, can't our wonderful talented GO be both an MT and a pop star?

Anna Pickard's blog? Debbie do you have a link please?

Shirley - thanks fro the link . I loved the song - and also hadnt heard it before -and Lindsey I am sorry to admit never heard of Clifford T Ward (and cant claim because I am too young)- tho have heard of Frank Sinatra! Can even con ploppy (sorry meant persuade him) into purchasing the new CD for me as can say has Moody Blues number - well almost.

Thanks fro successful move to new home Scott and agree with comments. Like Lindsey didnt vote as have rather lost faith in the whole TV voting system now.

Just came back from book group meeting. We started by reading poem by ee cummings - is it you who loves his poetry geri? Lots of wine and lots of chat and we did actually discuss the nominated book - dont always get around to it.

Feeling whacked tonight so off to bed - hard work drinking wine and chatting as we know. Sweet meads all.

Geri and Sheila - Boy do I disagree with you two. I just love that what we are getting on the album is what Lee wanted to record - recorded in the way and the style he wanted to record them. That is made very very clear in the Fascination biog. To me one of the things that I always liked about Lee was his willingness to take risks with his career to do what he wanted, and what felt right to him. His professional integrity if you like. And it feels like that is what he is doing again now. Not necessarily what anyone would have expected him to do, but he clearly feels very proud of it, and I cant wait to hear it.

Ali, just click on 'excited' that Scott has quoted near the top of this blog (4 paragraphs down after he writes 'Anna Pickard'). It'll lead you to the page.

Well I think it's bedtime for this little Loppy

Sweet Meads all

Jane E - I agree with you - I see no reason why he cannot do both MT and be a "pop" star (although I don't particularly like that term - it always sounds a bit frivolous to me and I think our boy is so much more).

What does concern me slightly, is that in one of the recent interviews (sorry can't remember which one) he said that if the album is a success he would like to make another one and go on tour with it, which, on the one hand, I would love to see the GO in concert being himself, but, on the other hand, where does that leave his MT career and all the roles we have speculated about him playing next!? I guess time will tell but I really do hope he finds time for both, but either way, I'll be behind him in whatever choices he makes.

(btw Jane E am trying to send you an email but the stoopid things on the blink again so please don't think I'm ignoring you - it will get to you eventually).

Just wandered back from episode 2 to catch up. The nice things about the loppies (one of, I should say) is that we can disagree & still get along. I'm willing to withold judgement on the album till I have, like Debbie, played it fifty times.

Fi, I love ee cummings. Check out "somewhere i have never travelled gladly beyond", it's beautiful.

My sisloppy, the one who's mad about DE, is also a big CT Ward fan, so I think I know what to get her for Christmas. Does anyone remember "Gaye" or "You've Come Up in the World"? BTW, Cliff also recorded a very nice version of the latter.

Thanks for that link Shirley, what a lovely song , both versions and beautiful vid.s.
Agree something pretty fishy about yesterday's last minute phone in, why only for MPTS category?
Have to say I've had similar thoughts to yours Sue, its all happened so quickly as Lee himself has said he's not had much time to reflect. I hope he has had lots of input into album and not been "advised" by his management what to do.
Very happy to support Lee's choice of Mushroom.

Just back in from pub to find out we've moved. Thanks for the new page Scott, the last one was getting a bit long.
'Fraid to say I was a DC fan, so really looking forward to see how Lee does How Can I Be Sure. Already had a taste of Make It With You (another of my favourites from way back) which gave me a shiver (in a good way) up my neck. The mix of tracks does look like they were picked to appeal to a wide age group.
From nearly the beginning of ADWD I thought he had the possibility of a ‘pop’ career (I didn't feel the same about CF). I can’t see why he can’t do that and MT. Might have to have some more of a break between the theatre to not burn out, if he does concerts, promotion and albums between MT.
Got to check emails
Nightlee night.

Night all. Sleep well. x

Whatever charity Lee wants us to support is fine with me.
I'm just back from reading Anna Pickards blog, and very funny and right on it was. You could almost feel her boredom and slight bafflement as the prizes were going out. I felt like her,- that my vote was a death sentence to getting a price. The only one I got right was Kim Ryder as best newcomer. As for many of the other catagories, I never watch, so my voting was random, and even then I got it wrong.
On this note I'll say good night, sleep tight, have wonderful dreams and wake up happy. One last dose of GO, and upstairs I go.

Just back from rehearsal and see Scott has moved us on! Thank you Scott! Do we all feel cynical that we had that extra phone in vote? Couldn't actually believe that after all the controversy with phone ins that they would do another, almost unannounced one! ....and the money kept rolling in from every side.......to got Mr Rice!
Debbie - as Chief Lush Loppy, I am a little concerned that you said a "little" drinkey poo - we don't do little drinks in the world of Lush Loppies - it's a large glass, or two or a bottle! Well exhaustion has set in so I am off to bed. Senior boss hits 65 tomorrow so we (7 of us) are going out to lunch - best have a good night's sleep beforehand! I will of course report back on full alcoholic intake later tomorrow, but I think it is probably the last camel ride tomorrow morning before returning to these (un)sunny shores, so up bright and early, camels groomed and ready to go!

Good night all. I just went and read Anna Pickard's blogg too. The comments are a real hoot. Loved Anton Dick. Right on. And good night to you too Carol, and kind of you to have groomed the camels, but you can keep the stinking things - I'm back in the dune buggy in the morning, much more fun.

Sweet Meads all

It's goodnight from me, my lovelies. Some of us need beauty sleep in order to face the challenges of journeys to strange & exotic locations -- Oxford Circus. And I wouldn't want to scare Eva & Sonja with my impression of Joan Rivers without the surgical enhancements!

finally finished reading AP's blog, hilarious comments!
really should go to bed now, sweet dreams everybody

Scott, aside from letting us abuse, er I mean use your blog for which we love you dearly, and thank you from the heart of our bottoms - I do so enjoy how your sense of humour and your writing - you also express, for the most part, exactly what I would like to say. If only I had your talent. Oh, and that of Anne and Janine's. I really enjoyed their take on the show..
Debbie, love your little ditty is delightful.. another person clever with words -and rhymes.. but enough of this obsequiousness (yes, I had to look that up).
On the matter of the GOs choice of songs for his album... I'm loving every one of them so far. I believe I expressed this on the 'other page'. The only difference between these and ADWD songs are that we didn't know what he was going to sing on ADWD - and he did a fantastic job on them; Now these are songs He wants to sing - and I love that one has even been written for Him... so he's going to put his beautiful LEE 'stamp' on them. I'll be really really surprised if I didn't like them all and listen to them as much as I listen to the ADWD songs (incessantly). My only disappointment is that there is no 'image' to recall his gorgeousness moving an' a grooving; eyebrow dancing etc. (except of GMYAS of course).
OK, I've rattled on long enough now, and it's late, and I've got an early start tomorrow... may even get to visit the dunes!!
Ooh, forgot to say - we had the most splendiferous firework display in the piazza at work this evening. It was quite spectacular - and at the time I thought = oh, must tell the Loppies about this.. So - you've been told. Can we have fireworks on Monday please, wherever we are.... Oops, just realised that's the TOGs realm.
OK - now it really is good night from me - sweetest of meads to all.

check out Donna's site - we've hit target!!! Go Loppies.

Hello
New home again - thanks Scott. Today when I came back from giving blood (new donors always welcome) I turned on the TV and heard that Denise VO will be on the Paul O’Grady show on Friday!!

With regard to Lee’s album – unfortunately he more than likely won’t have had as much input into the song choices as he would have liked. The record company has invested a lot of money in him and will want an album that will appeal to the masses (not just Lee Mead Fans/Loppies). It’s the first (of hopefully many) and as a newcomer who is not YET well known abroad (where I’m sure they will also hope to sell/market him) they can’t afford to take risks.

People check out the song titles on an album – if they “love that song” then they are more likely to purchase it than an album filled with a random selection of song titles they’ve never heard of – especially from a newcomer. If his first album contained purely MT songs then that would narrow the market share of sales - and radio play. Many of the songs on Michael Ball’s albums are covers (including his latest) - it’s what sells. I’m sure that Lee will do many ‘Theatre’ albums – so we’ve just got to be supportive and I’ve no doubt he will come up with the goods (so to speak). BTW Michael’s 4th album (‘First Love’ released in 1996) included would you believe one of Lee’s tracks – ‘How Can I be Sure’. It took Michael time to become the established star that he is – so too with Lee (maybe like Michael he will one day have his own TV show whilst still continuing with his MT career - and also get to perform on Broadway).

I incorporated the help (as you can tell) of my ghost writer again this evening as I wanted to add to the discussion several hours ago – and as my ploppy said before he disappeared off to bed (as I’m sure that’s where you all are now) “they will have to invent the fountain of youth for you to be able to write half a page - as the amount of time it takes you we’ll be in the next century by the time you’re done”. He then poked his head around the door to say goodnight and cheekily said “the fountain’s been ordered”.

Many Congratulations and Well Done Donna!

I've been awake since the crack of dawn. Actually, I don't think dawn'll be around for a while yet. Did someone say there would be fireworks? Can you give me a cuddle while we wait, BHB? No, of course I'm not cross with you, what a notion!

Well done, Donna! Congratulations on meeting target -- and how cool is the album countdown!

I had a thought sometime around 3:00 -- if Lee is performing a duet with C Fisher, perhaps that song may show up on her next album as a way of boosting her sales. Well, it would probably make me buy it.

Morning Morning, I see Geri has watered the camels for me, I've just given them a quick brush (including the teeth of Keef and ChrisB) and they are looking very splendid this morning, ready for our last camel charge. Water bottles are all filled and ready, the BHB has serenaded me and Geri whilst we worked (said something about a new album to promote) and we are sitting watching the sun rise over the dunes. Shirley bad news on the buggy, apparently sand has got into the petrol, so I am afraid it will be back on a camel for you...............

Isn't it brilliant about hitting target again. Really pleased. Thats going to be some cheque Donna is presenting to Lee. And with 2 weeks to go until CiN - I still have Lee's baseball cap here ready to send of to its delighted new owner. And the 2 lovely signed photos - Bubble envelopes ready - complete with some stiff card to protect them in the post - you can still win any of them you know - but only for another couple of weeks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

And good morning all my Loppy bunnies - last day in the desert. And for a big change we have come down to this lovely oasis to recover from the heat and dust yesterday - that sand storm was vicious and stripped all the paint off my dune buggy and the camels were most put out. I am enjoying an early morning dip with the BHB - seems swimming is very good for his PP ankle so we are just taking it very gently - someone or another keeps shouting that she wants him fit and well by next week - Well Desperate of Dublin we are working on it, but he might still be sitting on the ROTY in the second half.

Rather than the mobile canteen we are in a lovely open air cafe, with lots of tables spread around a grassy slope shaded by date palms. Lovely fruit platters, and some beautiful fresh fish dishes. And we are not talking kippers here. Sorry all - still alcohol and stimulant free - but back on Blighty on Monday and you can get as inebriated as you like - and watch me giggle when you are all clutching your heads and groaning on Tuesday. But we will of course take full commercial advantage of you and sell a wide range of hang-over cures.

So glad Daniel-the-Camel wasn't injured by that sandstorm, but poor Keef has buckets of sand in his teeth -- suppose that was inevitable, really, they are such sandtraps. Shame about your buggy, Shirley, but that little Craig-camel over there is quite the charmer! And he looks like he could use a good strong rider who'll stop him from endlessly grinning.

Well, I'm off to w**k, but then I'm all yours for a whole week! Yes, you should be scared...but, then, so should I!

Wow Donna Fantastic news - reaching the target!

Geri - are you all packed yet?

Ahh! Sunrise in the desert - and the serene calm of the undisturbed morning - that is until a load of Loppies mount up and start charging about!

I hope your not swimming in our drinking water Shirley?

Jane - drinking and water in the same sentence - from a Loppy. Does not compute. Does not compute.

I hope Geri is packing lots and lots of her famous Irish coffee for us. Looking forward to downing a shot or 2 myself. In how many days is that Geri??

Good morning ladies.
What great news from Donna. Hitting the target 2 weeks in advance. It reminded me that I forget to donate. So I did just that a couple of minutes ago and entered the raffle for the artwork.
Maybe Donna can ask the BBC for a pair of tickets to the Joseph and Maria show to raffle. Now that would give a lot of response I would think.

Geri, It only seems that I am an early bird but Carol is right to say that I live 1 hour ahead of you.
Scott, thank you for giving us a new hangout.

Today I am going away for the weekend to stay in a forest in the midst of Holland. No! I am not camping but I am staying in a very luxury little cottage. Lovely. The weather is supposed to be OK so lots of walks, I think, through a colourful display of trees.
Not a camel in sight. But I believe there are a lot of sheep nearby. They are also very colourful. I believe they are red and yellow and green and brown and scarlet and black and….and…. and …Blue!
So you see I will be in good company. Joseph is never far away. Have a good weekend you all and lets hope that Lee’s ankle is back in form.

Good morning, my little ones. A late start for me this morning, but blame it on the flaming computer. I have had to reboot 3 times this morning, and it is so sluggish that I think it has been on the Loppyjuice all day yesterday.
Oh well, ready for another morning in the desert. Morning, Donovan. What's the matter ? Sulking are you, bacause I let you have a day of rest yesterday? Jealous of the police car ? How daft can you get.? Wanted to be in the camel charge ? You are smoking too many of those funny siggies. There was no charge yesterday. Calm down and go and lie in the shade of that palm over there.
Good morning BHB. You do look lovely with your wet curls. Stop talking about your curls? A journo kept going on and on about them ? Of course there are more to you that the curls. There are you eyes, you lashes, your mouth, your chin, your throat, your torso, your ROTY and fronty, your legs and poor, lovely foot. Need I go on ?
Can I have a fresh friuit platter and a strong coffee please?
The camels are laden down this morning. Who are that hanging trussed up over their backs? CO,GGG,SCand SO. Well, we'd better find a nice big vulcano this morning. Lewis, stop moaning. Nobody loves you? Your Nana Jean does, and I have it on strong authority that she was the one applauding you on Tuesday. So stop skulking and line up with the others. See, even Keef is smiling. Crikey, those teeth are shining. Wonder if he has been to see Chris B's dad?
I must say I'm looking forward to see Blighty again, because this burka is really hot to wear. Shirley nearly drowned earlier this morning when she went swimming in hers. Well, we have to adhere to the local customs. She's over there trying to polish that scrap heap of hers, but I don't think it'll do any good. Anthony,- you'd better be ready for her.

Anne,- have a lovely week end amongst the trees. If it gets boring, you can rustle up those sheep and do a practice sheep charge ! That could be interesting.
Anyway,- enjoy yourself.

I see the fruit platter is empty, give it here, it looks just about big enough to accomodate my shapely?? behind. I'm off to sledge down that dune over there. No sorry BHB, you can't come with me, it's not that I wouldn't love to take you for the ride of your life, but Geri would kill me if you were to get so much as a grain of sand in your eye!! Here I go----wheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!

Anne, you have been reading my mind. I am already in contact with Donna about how we can work it. I will be discussing some ideas with her tonight. In the meantime can any Loppy who applied for tickets and has not yet had a Dear Loppy - get stuffed - email from the BBC and who does not yet know who they would go with if they do get an allocation, please email me. I might have a nice solution. And my 2 potential tickets are in the pot in any case.

Oh yes, and has anyone had a recent 'get stuffed' email?

Phew, pass me the water bottle (what on earth did Shirley mean about no alcxxxl??) Donna a hugh WELL DONE!!! Anne have a lovely weekend away, sounds like a wonderful place! Boss's birthday so have decorated his desk appropriately. Geri, get busy with your packing, I am of course in serious training today for next Wednesday!!

O Shirley it would be fantastic if the BBC give their cooperation.
I surly will be donation extra for a chance to go to the Maria-Joseph show. I didn't have any chance before giving you can't apply for tickets if you live outside the UK.
I am crossing my fingers all weekend.

Morning Everyone!!

I'M FAMOUS!! Thanks for the mention Scott!! I was rather surprised this morning to see my name actually IN Scott's blog above!! Cool!! Agree with everyone about the NTA's - we had spent all week voting for ADWD and then the greedy so and so's were trying to get more money out of us on the night. I knew the X factor would win so I only voted twice. It would have been nice to wipe the smug grin off Simon Cowells face though!

I read on another site that they (BBC) usually send out more tickets for the audiences than they actually have room for due to no shows. Someone, who has past experience, advised anyone lucky enough to get tickets to arrive VERY early and queue for several hours to ensure a seat?? Think it was on the Lee is Joseph forum? but it would be worth checking it out as I would hate a loppy to miss out at the last minute. Good Luck all those who are still in with a chance!

http://www.leemead.org.uk/viewtopic.php?t=1395
Hope for Geri's sake this isn't the case, I seem to be the bearer of doom and gloom today so maybe I'd better be off??

Hey man, Donovan here. This is a really cool pipe man....better get my shades on, the sun's too bright. That's better man.
Hey, I was like just relaxing on a dune and this pink thing charged by and then there were more of them, all different colours man. Think I must be hallucinating....this is good stuff.

Ladies, I would have joined you on the sand this morning but my mode of transport was laid off. May have to get there some other way tomorrow. Thought I'd try speedboating along the coast followed by waterskiing and then windsurfing, finishing off with a run across the dunes to the meeting point with my backpack. You can't say I don't try!

Ali - Help! I can't get into the link! Can you tell us what the news is - even if it is bad!!

Anne - have a lovely holiday - it sounds charming!

Shirley - if anyone can snaffle some tickets you and Donna can!

So this volcano then...

Jane E a lovelee met Dean Collinson outside the Adelphi and he said he is away next week so won't e playing the Pharoah by the looks of it, sorry if I panicked anyone!

Thank you Ali - Phew! Not the best news, but, yes I was imagining far, far worse.

Natural state of Loppy panic building seeing as I'm seeing the show week in two weeks. And I'm going to the Wednesday matinee! (Get prepared for Lewis, Jane!)

Now, I think Geri's got a trip to London planned next week. I wonder if anyones suggested seeing this nice little show called Joseph?

I know how you feel JaneE, I think we all go through those emotions before seeing the show, and even more so now that we know Lee has had to miss a performance. It would be good to get a statement from either his official site or RUG on the situation but I won't hold my breath!

I'm guessing that high importance is being given to Lee being on stage while Dean is away. Without both of them the show really would struggle. And CiN night is going to be THE show to have the 'A' team all in place for. Would that be the show you were thinking of Jane?

Debbie,- I see you get on really well with Donovan. Brings back old memories, does he? They say that those who lived through the late sixties don't remember them. Well, I did, and remember them very well, which will tell you that I was a very good girl. To be quite honest,- dope was somethin we read about, and we knew that some strange people at Uni used it. Even being very involved in the Student Union for several years, I can't remember ever being offered dope. Such blissful, innocent times!!
Ali,- on behalf of Geri I nearly had a heart attack, and had to read that link 4 times to be completely sure it was Dean who was going on holiday next week and not someone else.
So Lewis looked grumpy, did he? I bet he wasn't gorgeous, though. Maybe Nana Jean didn't applaud loud enough.

OMG can you imagine the audience reaction if Lee is not on for CinN. Would it be a sea of weeping women or would we turn violent? Not nice for Lewis either really. Shirley agree he has to work to be fully better for that but I do hope he is ok asap for anyone going sooner.

I now have a mole in the Aldelphi. It's really not much of a mole but my mum works with a man once a week whose grandaughter has just started her stint as one of the children. My information is therefore third hand(?) and my mum can and does get a story wrong at the best of times. Anyway I'm told that the injury was because he fell over on stage and the show had to be stopped for 5 minutes. Also when he is on holiday in January the tickets aren't selling very well. Ok so it's not really news as we could all guess that but it's the best I've got so far. I'll try and do better in the future.

Just a little note to all Cliff-fans. The Daily Express has a two page article about Cliff baby today with a really great picture,- naked torso et all !!!!!!

Not good enough Alison - detention for you!
For all you Josh Groban fans - he's on Loose Women soon.

Just re-read what you put Eva - Cliff's naked torso has put me off my tuna roll. Please put me out of my misery and tell me it's an early shot ie; 1960's.

Debbie that's just what I thought when I wrote it. Detention and 100 lines of I must do better.

I thought that would wake some of you up. Oh no, - it's a contemporary photo with hairy chest, six pack and a lovely smile. Toilet bowl to the left, Debbie,- if the tuna comes back up.

Did you just watch Sonny and Cher on Loose women aka Josh Groban and whatshername? Really funny.

Too late Eva, she turned right, and it did.

Yes, very funny - but then so was the original.

Feeling slightly dodgy....a little nause.........sorry..back..lat.....

Sorry Madge.

Um, Tuna, tasty!!!

Sorry, I am abit late in joining the conversation about the two songs but I have just been on youtube to hear 'The best is yet to come' and I am still recovering!! I really hope its the Clifford one and not the FS one as its absolutely beautiful!! I am sitting here sniffling - I was nearly crying and I am at work!! God knows what state I will be in if Lee sings it - bawling my eyes out probably!! Its great!! The FS one is cool too (and sadly I think it is probably going to be this one) and I can cope with hearing Lee sing 'babe' all the time! However, I am seriously concerned for all our healths when the album comes out - I think Ploppys and family should be warned that we will all be in a gooey mush and they wont get any sense out of us for days!!

The David Cassidy one - is umm interesting! The chorus is good but the verses are abit dodgy - but if you get rid of the cheesy 70's arrangements - there is a really good song! Both are ace and I can't wait to hear Lee sing them!

YOU ARE SICK WHOEVER YOU ARE (no pun intended).

Eva - Cliff was also in another paper this week and they had quite a few celebrities in there early years - and as they are now .They wrote how good Cliff still looked - but the other celebrities the heading was how ‘Hunks have turned to Chunks’
Eva this is for you http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/showbiz/showbiznews.html?in_article_id=490280&in_page_id=1773
Sorry to all (who don’t like Cliff)

Thanks for that Maggie - thank god I had already eaten my lunch -Debbie - DONT OPEN THE LINK - I don't think your stomach can take it!!

Just L O L

Maggie,- thank you for the link. It's the same photo as the one in the Express. If you don't behave youself, Debbie, I might whisper in your Ploppys' ear that you want the Cliff Calendar for Chritsmas !!

Ooh Ooh i am back again! Thanks for the new site Scott.

I still can't read any posts on the previous site as my scroll bar is full but i have read all the new comments and have sat here grinning away at you all- it's good to be back!

I had to do housew**k this morning but finally got to put my new CD from Gillian on which really helped and is great- thanks again Gillian!

I can't wait for the new album. My Dad called me up to say he had heard Lee's new single on radio 2 the other day. They could not belive it when it came on and thought i had missed it being at work but no such fears with Donna's lovely site being updated with every bit of news. It is growing on me and i love watching the video for GMYAS on youtube.

I hope Lee doesn't have to miss anymore shows and is on the mend- i bet he was really upset at missing a show but he must obey orders and rest if he is to be right soon- fingers crossed Geri for your show. Swimming should help Shirley so keep up the good work.

I am happy to support Mushroom and good luck with getting tickets off the BBC. I got a "get stuffed" email unfortunately.

Anyway this was just a short post to say "Hi" once again. Will try to keep up again now whilst i can!.

Just read Baz.B. in The Mail, who we know never misses a chance to denigrate talent casting shows, he says that Daniel is taking over the lead in Avenue Q at the Noel Coward Theatre in Dec..
Actually he's coming round a bit, says "See I can be sort of nice when I see they have talent". Hasn't he been to Joseph yet?
Talking of of N.C. I'm off to see Alex Jennings in Present Laughter at The National tonight.

Here’s another of the X factor contestants that has left (will there be any one still there for the final) Hmm two now that had to leave!!

Well Simon –at least ALW never had any of his Josephs that weren’t good honest and hard working young men.

http://www.xfactor.tv/news/article/?scid=188

Shirley, much as I am hoping and praying Lee will be fighting fit for CinN night - I'm afraid the show I'm panicing about is the matinee on the Wednesday before - when, at long last, it's my turn!
Yes, I know completely self-centred of me.

Hi there Tracy, shame you got the 'get stuffed' message too.

OOooo just seen the time - and it's Friday.

Time to practice being a Lush Loppy - Carol & Karen - see how seriously I take my reponsiblities.

Yahooooo - it's Friday!!!!!!!!!!!

Had a quick peek whilst at work today and saw Ali's post with the link about Dean but couldn't open it, then got called away to a meeting and have no clue what I've agreed to because I couldn't concentrate (true professional that I am) because I was thinking it must be about Lee and just kept thinking oh no poor Geri - he can't do this to her!!!! Glad it wasn't bad news.

Jane E - good lushloppy - start the weekend as you mean to carry on - mind you that loopy loppyjuice is strong stuff - I had a couple of glasses (okay they were bucket sized glasses!!) and fell asleep on the sofa, woke up and went to bed. Lovely evening!!

You're going to love this article about Lewis. Make sure you aren't drinking anything or you will spit all over your computer.

http://ts7.gazettelive.co.uk/2007/11/bright_break_for_lewis.html

Said proud Aranka: “He rang straightaway after the show to say Andrew Lloyd Webber and producer Bill Kenwright were there and hugging him. They said he was as good as Lee and he told them, I want to be better!”

Make sure you also read all the way down to see the comments in defense of Lee and add your own!

Well, I’ve started packing, but won’t finish until tomorrow night. I have a cunning plan for smuggling in the Irish coffee – by imbibing it first.

Have fun with the technicoloured sheep, Anne. Though that rather begs the question: how does one have fun with sheep? Best you don’t answer that…

Carol, break a leg on Wednesday – though not, of course, in the style of our poor wounded hero. The theatre should give purple hearts for those injured in its service. I’ll happily pin it on the chest of the century.

Ali – nooooooo! I was so looking forward to seeing Dean. I’m crushed. You don’t suppose someone warned him of an impending loppy attack and he took off for safer climes? I’m beginning to feel jinxed. Thanks for all the kind thoughts, everyone. I think I’m having heart attacks enough for all the loppies at this stage. No more bad news unless someone has some spare nitroglycerine.

JaneE – thanks again. I’ll save that little surprise for Wednesday’s fest. Sorry you can’t make it, but our paths are destined to cross -- though not on anything like a Bosworth Field, I hope. Who is this “Joseph” of whom you speak?

Ooh, yummy Cliffiness! Stop knocking Cliff – it’s banned in the constitution & with good cause! At least he’s not as scary as Keith Richards (is it that first name that's tainted, do you think?)

Jackee – I may have to push Debbie away from the emesis basin, I feel an attack of nausea. What a load of bullsh**! And how convenient a reporter just “happened” to be present to report on Boo-hoo’s performance. Better than Lee? In his dreams!

Did anyone see DVO on Paul O’Grady? Pic of the GO and he was mentioned with high praise – of course!

For the statistically minded among you: GMYAS is now ranked #6 fave music (UK) on YouTube, and #11 most discussed (UK).

Thanks for the link Jackee - the words gob and smacked come to mind!!! As good as Lee???? Puhlease!!! "Cried off"!!! - I know whose gob I would like to smack!!

Jackee,- that's why Lewis looked grumpy but NOT gorgeous the other day. Nana Jean wasn't there to applaud him !! In a way I feel sorry for the boy. He has to make up that he is better than Lee to try to cover up the fact that he was nowhere near him. Thank god someone who was there and watched the wooz could put him right straight away. Other inaccuracies in the article was put right too in the comments.
Geri,- do you want me to save you the pic of Cliff baby from today's Exspess ?
Do we need a trolly to trundle you to the car at the airport on Sunday morning? I was thinking of your comments about smuggling Irish coffee into this country.

Eva, yes please to the Cliff pic, and the trolley. Ta, much.

I'm trying right now to get my blood pressure down. I just gave that "gazette" a rollicking for their shabby and biased journalism; wonder if they'll add it to their site. And I don't feel a bit sorry for Lewis -- where do you think that rag got their story from in the first place? What he lacks in talent he makes up for in self-aggrandisement. Sorry, people celebrating anyone's misfortune (esp. the GO's) just get right up my left nostril!

You can be assured Jackee that a glass of rose would not be spat out at the computer whatever the comment. Can't seem to get the link up properly anyway but I get the general gist of it from you lot. CHEEK! Where's that emesis - whatever it is?

I think Geri def needs a trolley if she's packing tonight and finishing it tomorrow. What you got in there - an emesis basin? Btw, apology given Geri for being sick over Cliff - not literally thank God. I slump corrected (it's the rose). The Constitution does state we will not knock him (well, not that sort anyway). Therefore I won't mention the perma tan and white beard from the photo. Btw, is it normal for Santa applicants to have a tan?

Hello Tracy. Once a loppy, never forgotten!

Thank goodness someone who read the article was actually at the show when Lewis took on the role and was able to put the inaccuracies right. Talk about biased and is Lewis deluded or is it the usual newspaper thing. Lewis will never be as good as Lee in the role or anywhere near him, although I wish him well and I cant believe ALW or BK said such a thing to him.
I saw the POG show and to be fair DVO started off by saying that all the boys were lovely (when asked how she enjoyed doing ADWD) and Lee was amazing as Joseph of course...' POG said 'he's crazy for you you know'. and a picture of them together flashes up. 'Really' says DVO ' yes, one of the crew told me' says POG. 'Aaah' says DVO as POG said something I couldn't catch. She then rapidly changed the subject saying all the boys were lovely again and that Ben had the part in Hairspray etc. So make of that what you will!

It's lies, all lies. It's me he wants. He just hasn't met me yet.

Debbie,- Of course it's you he wants !!! How much rose have you had ? And Cliff baby can have a tan if he wants to. He can come to my house on Christmas Eve and play Santa too,- with and without a tan ! (That's when the Viking celebrate Christmas. Ahead of you lot as usual.) Then there will be time for him to pop over to Ireland for Christmas Day.
Geri,- Cliff photo packed and ready for you.

Oh is that what he said Shirley I missed that bit. I just thought how tired and not very well DVO seemed. She said she has a virus infection, and she just seemed really low.

And having a heavily medicated migraine I am heading off to bed. My poor dogs are all medicated too to cope with the bloxdy fireworks - I'd ban the dratted things. Already had a lot of rockets going off here. Even that stupid article did not raise any ire - although I am pleased to see it is very well responded to already. If that is truly what Lewis thinks he has lost andysympathy I had for him trying to fill Lee's 10 league boots and he is even more pathetic than I thought.

Goodness me what are the loppies up to tonight - dissing Cliff, spitting out perfectly good wine... - and normally everyone is so well behaved!!

The comments on the Cliff link about his raunchy calendar reminded me of clip on TV I caught in passing last night about the raunchy calendar of the Lewis peatcutters. All i can say is things have changed from when I used to help cut the peats in Lewis. Do they cut peats in the nude in Ireland too Geri? Wonder if my dad would like a copy for Christmas - would he recognise all his cousins with their clothes off.

Had an absolutely vile day at work so off to pub and no I am not going to spit any drink out.

Shirley 2,- I must admit that I prefer NOT to think of DVO and Lee in the same sentence.

Debbie - put the glass down and step away from the bottle - slowly now - nice and easy - before it pulls you back in and makes you even more delusional!!!!

Hmm, I see the Gazette didn't let my post go through. Chickens!

Debbie -- you make me think we need to come up with a suitable punishment for loppies who transgress the constitution. An hour listening to KMcT or the CO, perhaps? Cliff is lovely, OK? Glad we got that settled.

Why dont you copy it for us here Geri. We'll let it through

I didn't save it, unfortunately, Shirley, but I pointed out that there were multiple demonstrable factual errors in their article, such as saying that Lewis had only one rehearsal, and that Lee “cried off". I asked how any of their other "facts" could be trusted given that they quoted from a third-hand source, as in "Lewis’ family said that Lewis said that ALW said…" and I accused them of shoddy journalism. Finally, I pointed out that citing ticket prices “to see Lewis” revealed their bias & they should be ashamed of themselves.

Geri,- I have a feeling you were feeling a little p****d off ! Btw. couldn't have put it better myself.

Thanks for the link to the Cliff pictures, Debbie sorry they made you ill. I just think of how he looks now at 67 compared to most men that age. (My dad when he was that age for example) Body for Loife? Cliff said something similar in an interview, it is part of his 'job' to keep himself in shape.
Lewis did well to go on, what was said in the paper quoting him at second hand or so must be taken with a pinch of salt. In the past a friend of mine was quoted in the papers first hand and the spin they put on it was amazing. Lewis is a young lad and needs to get experience (in the theatre and in dealings with the press). A very very small part of me thinks would it be too bad for Lewis to do the matinee next Weds. (5 sleeps!) BUT on the other hand 'ankle get better' pleeeese.

... oh jeez, I'm so fed up with myself...
I sat here composing what I naturally thought were very amusing and insightful points of my view... screeds -- getting it all off my chest, having not been able to participate during the day... then I digressed, over to check out the post on the LoveLEES blog, got sidetracked into loading different desktop backgrounds .. remembered I should be back here - and of course my diatribe was gone. Phit, just like that....
Beside myself with ALWs irresponsible comments to BooHoo. Oh, I remember what I likened the BooHoo to... a skinny (is there such a one?) retriever puppy, bouncing around and knocking everything over (the rest of the company) in the vicinity and being totally unaware of it, just to get more adoration and attention from the master (ALW) - and believing that praise. Sweet as the boy may be (make out to be - ah, his Mum and Nana love him and so they should) but ... "as good as Lee" MY A**E. ALW should be ashamed of himself heaping such exaggerated praise on an impressionable young lad like that - could give him (BooHoo) an even worse reputation in the profession.
Now, to hit the 'post' before I wander off to Donna's place.

Evening Loppies - just reporting back on a somewhat long lunch (finished at about 5.15pm) - in the cause of lush loppieness I managed to consume 2 fino sherries (chilled to just the right temperature) and then several glasses of Pouilly Fume (I did promise I would research white wine) ... not sure how many in fact - there were five of us drinking and we had 6 bottles last count, then a Baileys poured over my hazlenut icecream. All very civilised. However, doing this research has taken its toll and I am head for an early (very early night). I read the comments on Lewis - Auds are you still sure you might go with your January tickets??? - and lost any sympathy I might have had for him - saying ALW and BK said he was as good as Lee - rubbish!!!!
And on that note, sweet Meads all! Back to the bearch tomorrow, although I feel we will be sad to leave the camels behind (ok maybe not all the camels!).

Can I just set the record straight - I have admired Cliff ever since I saw him in that black and white silent film. And he's even better now they've added sound. There, no need for that awful punishment Geri.

I think we should send out get well vibes to Lee on behalf of all the loppies going to see him next week.

Delooshional Karen? One of those words from Auds that are hard to say when under the influence, hic...

Auds, playing devil's advocate, may I say we only have a poor excuse for a paper's report of Nanna Jean's report of Lewis' report that ALW said anything of the sort. I can believe the Lord gave some sort of praise to the Pasty One (PO -- perfect initials, doncha think?); after all, it wouldn't make business sense to tell the truth to a boy with delusions of Lee-worthiness. But I think it's wishful thinking on Lewis' behalf to believe ALW said he was compared with Lee. As to Lewis wanting to be "Better than Lee" -- well, I want to look like a young Liz Taylor and sing like Annie Lennox, but it ain't gonna happen. Let's keep it real -- no one in the Bradley household is likely to.

Geri,- I think you put everybody in their right place. However, I doubt that anybody from "The Bradley Household" will read this blog.

I am just going to watch QI on BBC2 now. I love it ! And with Jo Brand in the panel, it can't be better. See ya later.

Oh Geri, fabulous.. good to have LOL moment. Yeah, I guess Mom's and Nana's are allowed to exaggerate..
oh and I do love your wishlist... and the PO initials..
Well, I might just approach that Gazette wot run that rubbish and offer tickets up for sale.. then... if all those PO fans really believe all they read, I could add more coffers to the CiN, or even the Mushroom Theatre funds.... hey, now there's an idea to run with.. I'd much rather do it that way than go and watch the PO.

Will you all stop dissing my grandson. He's been crying his little eyes out all afternoon. It was bad enough when he had to go up on that grape picker, or whatever you call it. I nearly went up there for him, poor boy.

He's made for the part and I won't hear any words against him.
He's a star, a STAR!

just did my vote of the day - from home. GG is 1691 behind the GO. but.. 98 behind that other fella on the TV poll.

Nana Jean Lovely to hear from you. I'm sure you will give your boy all the support he needs. By the way Tescos have a brill offer on tissues this week.

Did someone say something??? Couldn't hear clearly. Sounded like they didn't have their teeth in properly.

Dear loppies - I am very worried about one of our dear loppies who seems to be suffering from sciz...schiz.....scizo.......okay, she thinks she's somebody else, well, actually, several somebody else's. First she thought she was a dog then she thought she was related to boo-hoo. She needs help!!!!!

Keith?? Who mentioned that toothy Scot?
I must find that hearing aid.

Karen,- did you start your week end celebrations too early ? Chizzo.. what? You can tell Nana Jean to s*d off our blog !,- or we'll really see to it that BoHo comes to grief tomorrow on the beach.
QI up to it's usual standard. One of the questions was how one can fool a lie detector. The answer was too anatomically expressive for your tender ears, but it was funny!!

Sorry, that should be anatomically explicit.

Nana Jean, You are doing very well working this new technology, posting on a blog! Did you go to classes for silver surfers?

Cliff fans:
http://www.lovecliffrichard.com/

eva, you mean analtomically surely..

Eva - I start my weekend celebrations on a Monday evening - surely that's not too early!!!!!

I'll have you know that I own a City & Guilds Certificate in surfing. I had to go all the way to Newquay to get it.

That Nana Jean sounds like a sprightly lady. Good luck to her I say and here's raising a glass to all sprightlies......

I would guess Stephen Fry is anatomically expressive, but only when the occasion demands.

Nana Bradley, why don't you and the wee Scots' lad and Boo-Hoo surf all the way to Norway. There are some lovely fjords where you can get lost for a very long time. (don't worry, Eva, we won't let them actually set foot on Norse soil).

Thanks for that Cliff love, Jo4. The perfect thing at bedtime (shaddup, Debbie). With the wine and the very long day, not to mention a certain amount of excitement, it's goodnight from me. Someone pack up the old woman and the PO & send them postage due with their surfboards. (I meant Nana Bradley, not Shirley. Put her down, Eva!)

That's it. Friday night, one bottle of rose and I'm all ready for na nights. What a party girl I am! I suspect Nana Jean is already in her wincyette.
I forgot to say, have a lovely weekend Anne, if you haven't already gone.
Sweet meads all. x

That's it. Friday night, one bottle of rose and I'm all ready for na nights. What a party girl I am! I suspect Nana Jean is already in her wincyette.
I forgot to say, have a lovely weekend Anne, if you haven't already gone.
Sweet meads all. x

Hi all.

Just got back from seeing Stardust at pictures. It was very good and very different. It is a PG and was very enjoyable. The male lead was very cute especially when he had long hair but it wasn't curly!

I brought Mother-in-Law up to date about all the weeks goings on in Lee world so that was good. We taped It takes 2 tonight so off to watch that- did anyone watch it and were there any ADWD boys on?

Up at 6 tomorrow for work so will be back later tomorrow- thanks for the mention Jane E and Debbie. Have a great time Geri.

Night all.

I wish they wouldn't DO that! (withhold the comment, that is).

OOh Debbie-i am seeing double of you and i haven't had any wine! Sleep well and hope the heads ok in the morning.

Got to go, packed lunches to make.
Nightlee night all ......... and nana jean!!!

ZZZZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Just wanted to say hello, have enjoyed catching up with all the posts, too tired to think of anything sensible to say, my duvet is calling, nite nite all.

Geri,- I have just sent Nana Jean and PO off to surf (or drown) in Sognefjorden in West-Norway. It is the deepest fjord in the world, so with any luck they will disappear forever. Even the Russian submarines managed to play hide-and-seek there with NATO during the Cold War. They always skipped the radars in Sognefjorden.
Debbie,- why are you turning blue ? I thought you said you were on the rose ?
Good night all. Sleep tight, have wonderful dreams and wake up happy.

Anyone seen this interview with Ben re his part in Hairspray?

http://www.officiallondontheatre.co.uk/news/display/cm/contentId/96401

Good morning all you lovely Loppies and thanks for that link Mabs - interesting.

I loved reading last nights chat - is Nana Bradley the other side of the family to Nana Jean? Or is she one and the same person? Do I care???????? While I am pleased Lewis thinks he did brilliantly that is not quite the picture that is coming from those who were unfortunate enough to see him. And as for thinking he might be as good as Lee - oh that really is just beyond stupid. Looses any sympathy we might have had for him. My real sympathy goes to Auds. Getting stuck with those tickets to see the little twerp - try ebaying them Auds - someone might want them if you start them cheaply enough 00.01p maybe?

Phew - back on our home beach this morning. Thanks goodness for that. All that sand blowing about in the sandstorm got places sand should never go. Most uncomfortable.

And back in our very own BeachCafe/Bistro. Home sweet home. Yes BHB, it is good to be back isn't it. To celebrate, and because I am a madly generous idiot a free drink of your choice with every breakfast order. Stand by your short order grill BHB I think we might be busy later. Welcome home all.

Morning Beach Bunnies - bit of a relief to leave the camels behind - my btm was beginning to feel a little bruised! Mm Shirley, poached eggs on toast with a side order of mushrooms and a tomato juice please - the BHB knows exactly how I like my tomato juice - a little celery salt, a dash of worcestershire, a slug of vxxxka, one cube of ice, all nicely stirred by hand. That's just the ticket. No sign of Nana Jean this morning? Perhaps she is out buying the Tesco special tissue offer for her grandson - you know the delusional one. Auds - perhaps you could contact the gazette and offer your tickets through them?? That might be a way of getting rid of them!! Anne hope you are having a lovely weekend. Geri are you sitting on your suitcase yet?

Good morning all. Home, sweet home . I never thought I'd be pleased to see the pink hair of Shirley's first thing in the morning, but today with her pinny on, she is such a welcome sight. Good morning to you too, sweetheart. I'll have my usual, please. You know what it is. (BHB runs up to the counter and comes back with a big mud (porcelain of course) of black coffee and a walnut roll.)
Perk up, ladies, because I heard the most amazing news on Norwegian radio this morning. It went like this.:
From Sognefjorden's sherriff office we have just received a report that two people who reportedly were surfing (?) in the fjord were rammed and sunken by what is believed to be a Russian submarine up to it's old tricks again. Witnesses states that as they were watching with amazement, a young boy and someone believed to be his grandmother, was trying to surf on the fjord. They were padling about and shouting:"Where are the waves?", when suddenly this monster rose out of the water, rammed into the two and tipped them over. People old enough to remember The Cold War, said "The Monster" looked just like the Russian submarines that used to sneak into Norwegian waters in those days. The sub dived down again and disappeared, and no sign could be seen of the two surfers. Searches are now underway, but the Sheriff admits to be rather baffled. "Why people would try to surf here I don't understand ", he said. "It is well known to be the longest and deepest fjord in the world, but I have never seen anybody trying to surf here before. They must have been given bad advice. (He, He. If only he knew !) Surely November is a bad time for water sports anyway. However, as stupid as it is, we will spare no effort to find out what has happened to those two deluded souls."
Geri,-Can you imagine what those people were doing there? Who do you think told them to go surfing in Norway, of all places. They have probably read it in some paper,- The Gazette perhaps? But as we know, they only print lies.
Have a nice morning all. I suddenly feel great. Usually the news are all bad on the radio,- not this morning.

I feel a bit sorry for Lewis here. He steps into a role that Lee has made his own, and that those of us on the internet are raving about, and where people are going largely to see Lee, not just the show, and without the sympathy/encouragement that a 'normal' understudy would get, instead of having a role to make his own like Ben. (Nice interview I thought, thanks Mabs)

Given how hard it can be to get roles, he's hardly going to turn down a job offered to him (even if possibly RUG are somewhat cynically trying to sell seats to Lewis's own fan base from ADWD during Lee's holidays)

Of course ALW/BK would encourage him, they're not going to knock his confidence at this stage, and Lewis probably meant he would be better than he was that night, not better than Lee, but by the time his understandably over the moon parents/grandparents had repeated it a few times, including to reporters, it came out differently. Having seen how easy it is for things to get distorted in the press, when It's not a proper 'horses mouth' interview like Ben's above, I'm reserving judgement.

morning Loppies - what? Not a camel in sight? Just as well really, I kept falling off.

I went to see an Elvis impersonator last night - very good laugh, but I decided not to request Devil in Disguise!

Oooo thanks Jackee for that link and for the warning before hand. I like to think the PO was just seriously mis-quoted. I can't believe he's that delusional!

Tracy - glad you liked Stardust - I've just one thing to say to you - Captain Shakespear ! wonderful character!

Geri - you are most welcome! Now you're sure you've got everything? Toothbrush? travel clock? Industrial sized coffee maker?

Breakfast time - any chance of bacon butty Shirley?

Morning, all. I have an action packed day ahead of me -- tutorial, packing, hair appointment, packing...But I will be dipping into the blog on & off as time permits. Just so you don't miss me (ahem), I have a little present for you --

Ten Signs That You're A Loppy

10. You develop a sudden need to possess every electronic device around -- and you learn how to use it.
9. You don't remember your spouse's birthday, but you know all the lyrics to Mack the Knife.
8. Your vocabulary has expanded to include terms like "ploppy", CO, BHB and RoTY.
7. July 14th is now your national holiday.
6. You think ALW is quite sweet really.
5. You're broke from spending money on tickets, DVDs, pictures, and donating to Children in Need.
4. You've developed an inexplicable aversion to the name "Keith".
3. You can recognise other loppies from a 500-yard distance.
2. You're highly entertained at the prospect of virtual beach-front bistros, camel rides, and broomstick flights to London.
AND THE NUMBER ONE SIGN YOU'RE A LOPPY:
Your life revolves around the music, performances, pictures, news and interviews of a certain handsome, talented, curly-haired man!

Morning all - ooh Geri, you've just described me to a T. Must mean I'm a Loppy - who'd have known!!!!!!!

Coffee & Chocolate Chip Brioche for me please this morning BHB - I feel I need something a little sweet - yes I know you're a little sweet BHB, and it's very kind of you to offer, but for the next few days you have to look after the Irish lady so I'll do my Loppy duty and let you attend to her!! She's coming a long way to see you so be good for her won't you!!!

Oh Geri - spot on! Just read the Ben interview, thanks Mabs. I think that he is right in that this is a part he is really suited for - I never thought he could bring the poignant side of Joseph out, but Hairspray seems made for him. Just off to the shops so catch up with all you sleepheads later!

Hmmmat - Geri, that sounds familiar - I suspect I qualify!

Geri, the reason you can spot another loppy from 500 yds is that there will always be a very large bucket at very close proximity wherever they are.. they have big doe eyes and very wobbly knees and great big grins on their faces as they approach/walk by a certain theatre on the Strand. Or perhaps even as they sit at their computers watching the likes of YouTube....
Gillian - how kind you are... we know the press are notorious and parents and grand parents are terribly proud, but it is fun getting on one's high horse about stuff like that, in defence of the GO (who we all know needs absolutely no defending whatsoever) as a committed Loppy - hmm, that perhaps that last bit doesn't quite sound how it was intended...
And talking about stuff, thanks for the link Mabs to Ben's interview. I'm glad he's enjoying is "jumping around and stuff". Glad he's 'like best friends' with his less experienced 'lead' of the show. I'm sure he's showing her the ropes (oh my goodness, what side of the bed did I get out of this morning???)
What a beautiful day it is today. Blue skies and a good nip in the air. I'll have my bowl of hot chocolate and a croissant to dunk in it, out on the terrace please my lovely - I'm scarfed up, woolly hatted with my cool shades that'll steam up as I slurp at my hot chocolate - no, not you BHB as hot and as sweet as you are, it's not slurping that I'd like to do with you - let just sit here and be entranced by the sea.. and discuss important political issues.
Shirley, LOL. you are cruel.... 0.01 p!!!! for such prized tickets?? Oh, that's the starting price (still cruel)... choked on my toast when I read that.
Hey, don't you just love those icons on the LoveLEES sites. People (they must be youngsters) are so clever at creating them. There's one that I love - Sleeping Beauty. Ahhhh. Ali posted the link http://www.leemead.org.uk/viewtopic.php?t=1395
and if you scroll down you can see them - if you can get in of course.
Right, must prepare - off to Winchester today - bunch of non-loppy friends meeting up for our bi-annual get together.. I can and will of course bore them to extreme with my incessant chatter about the GO - I trust them not to excommunicate me...
Enjoy the weekend one and all... 4 more sleeps to the Gerifest - 13 to the CiNfest - oh, and for Jo4 and I, 11 sleeps to the K&I fest.

Good morning - or is it now afternoon. Fraid broke another commandment and did h........k - getting in training for Christmas.

Getting confused over Nana - only Nana I know is Peter Pan's dog - and talking of PP - does Cliff never age, what is his secret.

Cant stop at cafe this morning as ploppy offered to take me out to posh hotel for coffee and cake. Having done no h........k for ages he is now so grateful that I have begun that I think this my reward. Hmmm good ploy - must remember it.

Good luck with the packing Geri and with the flight and whole week. London doesnt know what is going to hit it when gerifest hits town. Have a brill time.

I agree with Gillian! (blub, blub) Lucky I was an olympic swimmer in my day (blub, blub). This water is FREEZING. That bouncy buoy came in useful. My little Lewis is wrapped around it so tightly that it's even making noises like it's alive! I knew my large undergarments would come in useful one day - a wonderful flotation device. Once a girl guide, always a girl guide.
Now where's that compass Lewis? Oh do stop crying, you're starting to get on my nerves. Which way is England?

Auds, have a lovely time with your friends.Will you be playing a game of, see how long you can go without mentioning Lee or Loppies? - difficult isn't it?

Fi - I need to break the same comandment today, the poor house has been neglected so long!

Can anyone else hear a glugging noise coming from Norway?

Geri,- I have had my suspicions for a long time, but your list confirms it :I AM A LOPPY ! Thank you for clearing that up, and for telling us who to look for at Heathrow tomorrow morning. Three "ladies" wandering around with glazed looks and stupid grins on their faces ! Should be easy enough to spot, as one of them is of the pint size variety (allegedly).
Being broke ( well almost) because of all the spending on tickets etc. is so right. I was much richer at the same time last year.
Auds,- it's lovely here at the beach this morning, isn't it? Sun shining, clear, crisp air and BHBbeing loving and attentive. This is the life!
Ah, Nana Jean,- you want to know the way to England? Freezing here, is it ? Don't tell me PO,- eh, I mean Lewis, is crying? I would never have thought that of him !! All right, you swim out to the end of the fjord and when you enter the North Sea, you turn right and keep going. It might take a while, but you should eventually reach England. (No need to tell her it will be the long and scenic route, via the North-East passage, past Greenland, around Alaska, down the North American West coast, through the Panama Channel and across the Atlantic. Maybe they'll be back in time for Lewis to stand in for GO in January.)
Mabs,- thank you for the Ben link. Glad to hear he is happy and upbeat with his role. He could have said something nice about Lee, don't you think?
Fi,- why is Cliff looking so amazing ? Because he is a lovely man; looks after his body "for loife", and sings for nice ladies like myself. I hope GO will look as good as Cliff baby when he turns 60.

There you go Nana Jean back out of that nasty deep fjord the nasty Norwegian lady dumped you in, and turn right. Yes, very sure it is right due North is the way home. (Well the way to the home of the Polar bear anyway. HEHEHEHE). Yes it is a long way, A very long way. I dont think you will be able to get the wee crybaby back until mid January.

Have fun in Winchester Auds. Lovely city. I am meeting a friend in Salisbury next Saturday. I suspect she will find my lack of interest in things not asscoiated with the GO something of a trial. Especially so few days after the Gerifest and so few sleeps before CiN. Just starting to get really excited again. Heaven knows what state Geri is in - GERI, Hey GERI - What sort of a state are you in???????????

Snap Eva, Great minds and all that.

Check out Lee's official site, more news items, magazine articles, and the Winner's Story is confirmed as being on over Christmas, actaul date tbc. Yippee!!!!

Shirley, I just got back from my first abnormal psychology tutorial. The lecturer is called Sieglinde and she reminds me very much of Sonja -- more her way of talking and her bubbly personality than anything else. Is it weird that I'm comparing my lecturer with someone I've never actually met? Is it a good thing I'm studying abnormal psych? Don't answer that!

Nana Bradley, there was a small error in your directions: you should swim due north and keep going until it becomes south, and head over to the Pacific Ocean. Sharks? Oh, I wouldn't worry, the ice'll get you long before then...

Lots more Lee stuff coming up on the magazine front, thanks for that update, Gillian. You think New Woman & the like will fixate on the curls, or will they actually ask him something of substance?

Got to rush, lots more people to annoy yet! Don't know what state I'm in, Shirley, but plan on it being one of inebriation before the day is out! Later!

Reading Daily Express today, there is another competiton where you can vote for your favourite TV show. This time it is Variety Club the childrens charity. for the the Royal Variety Club Showbusiness Awards which "reward top entertainers as well as raising funds for disabled and disadvantaged children
This year, one of the most hotly-contested categories will be the Daily Express Readers Award - which is where you come in. We want you to vote on which of the shows nominated her should carry off our coveted award.
This years event, hosted by Mylene Klass, will be held on November 18 at the London Hilton on Park Lane.
The glittering ceremony will be braodcast by Sky One on November 25 and some of the country's top names will be collecting and presenting awards."
That was the blurb, and the following shows are nominated (I'll write them all down with telephone numbers to ring)
The X-factor : 0901 031 1471
Robin Hood : 0901 031 1472
Strictly Come Dancing : 0901 031 1473
Any Dream Will Do : 0901 031 1474
Spooks : 0901 031 1475
Life on Mars : 0901 031 1476
Calls cost 25p from a BT landline.

So playing fair here, I'll leave it all up to you.

Cheers Gillian, lots to look forward to!

And thanks for the phone nos Eva, ooo don't let this one go to the s*dding X-factor! (Or Robin Hood for that matter)

Just to say I'm back, big Hello again, after late hol, have spent the last week catching up with the Blog (laughter, tears (of laughter), more laughter, a little Grrr, lots of yups) and 164 e-mails. Not to mention the new CD!!!! Ooh the excitement, crashed out last night at 08.30 oooh tubed out.
We voted but it was, as Ploppy said, a disgrace. And what Scott said.

Wish I was there for the Gerifest, I hope you all so enjoy, enjoy, enjoy, looking forward to the reports. Have checked off the ticklist, yup am definitely a Loppy.

Quick call. Got a fireworks party 2night and I haven't started the soup yet. Luckily there's the River Mole at the end of the garden for me to push ploppy into when he sets himself alight (or when he makes the next disparaging remark about our GO).
Hey,I would just like to stand up and 'fess - My name is Debbie and I am a Loppy.
Have fun one and all - esp Auds and Geri. Looking forward to Wed! Next time I pay a visit I'll have had 'some' mulled wine so I apologise in advance....

Ooo Debbie, can I come to your party - the one I was going to got cancelled!!

Geri, just in case I forget to say so later, all the best for tomorow, hope you have a fantastic week!

Mabs-Thanks for the link to the Ben interview, I did think it would suit him more. I never saw him as Joseph.
Auds and Carol-I'm looking forward to K&I. As said before heard the album loads of time when I was young. Sorry Carol, but I might be a touch more excited about the show I'm going see later, when I remember what it is I'll let you know.
Am I a Loppy? I've checked on Geri's list. Oh dear I think I might be. Is there a 12 step plan for it? Doesn't really matter, as for the plan to work you have to accept (done that), get to a real low (no, always high) and want to change (definately not).

Hi Vali, nissed you lots. Glad you have caught up with all our insanity. It really doesn't get any better does it? Going to miss you all when I am away. Three weeks today - just realised how fast it is coming up. So focused on Gerifest and then CiN that the holiday has sort of crept up on me.

Jo4, my mind loves songs and a comment of yours triggered a strong memory - When I was Young -

The rooms were so much colder then, my father was a soldier then, and times were very hard, when I was young.
I smoked my first cigarette at 10 and for girls I had a big yen and I knew quite a lot, when I was young.
Sung by a wonderfully gravel voiced Eric Burton with the Animals. Not sure if it did much over here or was just a hit in America, but I think I might even have it still. Must put it on the jukebox.

I was loving the Loppy checklist, and thought I had done my I am a Loppy bit on 17 June but when I went back and checked I just dived in. So here goes. My name is Shirley and I am a Loppy. and by CiN night I will have been an outed Loppy for 5 months. And reading back as well as Carol there was Debbie and Fiona and all of us obsessing already.

I hate bl**dy fireworks - I'm already a nervous wreck and the evening's barely even started. And my cat managed to sneak out of the house this afternoon and has now disappeared so she'll probably having a heart attack somewhere!! They should ban em - sorry to be such grump but I do hate them.

To anybody going to a bonfire, have fun, and be safe!!

Me - I'll stay in and watch SCD!!!!!

Evening Ladies ....score card printed and passed to Sloppy - she is really excited about keeping the scores!! No fireworks for us but I am keeping in the spirit of things with a beef sausage casserole (natch it has red wine in it). Anyway - it's not until Monday!!! All those having bonfire parties tonight though have fun, keep safe and wrap up warm!

Karen,- join the club, The Fireworkhaters United. They only belong on New Years Eve. If people could restrain themselves and only fire the blasted (!) things on the night, I might not grumble, but when the racket starts the week before and goes on for a week after the event, I do object.
I think Im turning into a Grumpy Old Woman. I adore Sheila Hancock, but then the lucky lady was married to the revered John Thaw, so what's not to adore.
I'm with you Karen,- tonight is SCD, -score card printed and ready to help Scott dear do his job. See you on the other side in half an hour.

No 12 step plan for me either Jo4 - I confess to being a Loppy and have no intention of being 'cured'!

But I am also a big kid, and I do like fireworks - on the other hand I'm with Karen on one thing - we do get them going on for rather too long in our neck of the woods, don't we lass!

I'm another anti firework Loppy. My poor dog goes absolutely mental, and have just sedated him and my young(ish) bitch. Second night, and will have to do so for another couple of nights. Really pisxes me off. Agree with Eva, if they were only allowed on the night that wouldn't be too bad, but they go on and on.

Oh wasnt John Thaw wonderful. I love all the Grumpy Olds - even if some of them do start to look a little young????!!!??!?!

I'm also an anti firework Loppy. We get them for days before and after the "day" and for Divali,too, even though there are organised displays in our village and nearby towns. I'm just old and grumpy too.
I too think John Thaw was wonderful and still enjoy watching repeats of Morse and Goodnight Mr. Tom.
I'm pleased to say that I have looked at the list, am definately a Loppy, and have no intention of changing.
SCD has started so I'm off to watch.

Have a good evening folks - hope it isn't too traumatic for the anti-firework Loppies.

Byeeeee!

A lot of good dancing tonight, and I voted for Letitia. I think she's coming on in leaps and bounds and is a delight to watch. I'll admit that Kate had her best dance yet, but the long skirt covered a lot of clumsiness. I hope they send Dominic home. He didn't dance,- he marched like a tin soldier !!!
Not a lot of fireworks here yet, but I know it's coming. I have some i*****g to do, so I'll put a certain DVD on loudly and enjoy myself.

You're lucky Eva, lots and lots of them here. Solo in total absolute quivering terror despite being sedated. Telly so loud I am getting a headache. The dancing was good though. Loved Letitia and Penny best, but dont want to see Kelly and Brendan go out - not a good week for them but they are such risk takers I love their irreverence.

It is like a battle field here. Dog under table at my feet, the rest of the tribe are pinging off the walls.

If our poor pets are like this what on earth is the wildlife like. They must be so scared. I HATE FIREWORKS.

Jo4 - same here re battlefield - cat has now come home and is totally traumatised - needs lots of tlc - have locked her in lounge with ploppy administering tlc whilst I make dinner.

Shirley - I agree re Brendan and Kelly - I don't particularly like him but I do have a bit of a thing about bad boys and as a bit of a rebel myself I can't help liking him, much as I try not to!!

God I wouldn't have thought it could get worse. Oh but it has. All round us now. Nightmare. Dogs desperate for a pee went out - rockets going off dogs shot back in and pee'd in the hall. Oh great. Did I mention I dont like fireworks.

Karen - me too, maybe thats what it is.

Battle is getting closer. Have you ever tried to walk through the house with a 30 kg dog leaning on your legs. Now safely back under table, I can feel hot breathe on my knee. Big black cat rushed under the side board just now fearing direct hit. They must have seen all the home defence films from the war, get under the table.
Shirley/Karen I too have a soft spot for Brendan. I'm sure I'd want to kill him if I knew him.
Trying to make a new cd for the car.........should be doing stuff for w**k. Nevermind.

We have well and truly entered fireworks land here too. It's all over. I am so glad I don't have any pets, but I can hear the neighbour's dog howling.
I******g well and truly done. Following the Lottery quizz. Of course I know most of the answers. One always does at home. One of the contestants just dissed Cliff baby !!!!! She can't be a Loppy.

Eva she did think he might be 64!
Right, I've completely confused laptop, won't let me get cd out.
But I have downloaded pics I took today (on my new digital camera) on to pc!!!!!! I've just checked them and I seem to have taken a video of a horse standing still by mistake, well I can't see the menu without my glasses! The rest of the pics are fine. Previously I took, on purpose, a video of the dog sitting down from standing, that was fine.

Jo4,- we might send her out to sea to join Nana Jean and PO.
I have been practising with my digital camera today too. The old one went on the blink and with so many important events coming up, I just HAD to get a new one. As Geri so rightly said,- one does invest in all kinds of techy devises.

Well ladies, I've been fed and watered, made as beautiful as a woman in my condition is likely to get, checked into my flight & got my seat number, and finished packing. The only thing I forgot to do...is buy some wine! Now I have to go to bed sober (eek!) and hope to sleep. Suspect I'll be up for several more hours yet. Oh well, only thing left for me to do is book the taxi to the airport.

Sorry about the upset animals, ladies. I admit I always loved bonfire night. Some of my earliest memories are going to the Ally Pally every November and fireworks always bring that back. Still, I know how upsetting it is to animals, and it's a shame that people are so inconsiderate in how they let rockets & stuff off. We had our share here earlier in the week for Halloween, though what fireworks and Halloween have to do with each other is beyond me!

Going to DVD land for a while (guess which!). Will check in before bedtime.

Geri, hope you do get some sleep. Have a safe journey, enjoy the show(s) and see you on Wednesday. And I am sure you will see Lee being his brilliant best.

Chuffing nora - a flippin firework just landed on the conservatory roof, whizzed around, giving me a fantastic light display but scaring the s**t outta me. I jumped out of my blinkin skin and now have a rather unattractive red wine stain all down my front!!!!!

Geri - when do you leave for our shores - am so excited for you - have an absolutley fantsatic time (how can you not, with Lee and the Loppies) - looking forward to hearing all about. Have a safe jourmey!!

Geri- Hope all your travelling goes well. As I said, looking forward to seeing you on Weds.
Right - gave up on RealPlayer to burn cd, as it kept not responding. Used something else. Seemed to work OK, but I can not check in car yet as don't want to leave dog during the battle. Although she is now sitting on her bed as the fighting has retreated a bit.
As a child I loved firework night, organising all the younger children, making sure there were buckets of water, ensuring everyone stood behind the 'line' when the fireworks were lit. It is the very loud ones I don't like now. Pretty is OK, loud is not.

Oh thank heavens. It is finally FINALLY easing up. The dogs are calming down, 2 even dared to go out briefly. Not the dog yet. He is still totally frazzled. My nerves are in shreds. But at least my Ploppy is even now driving home from Heathrow.

I think I'll have an early night too. Have to get up around 5.30 to have breakfast before going to pick up Sonja and then meet a certain Irish Loppy at Heathrow. I just might watch a DVD,- no ,not that one. I bought some good Norwegian crime series when I was home in September, and are rationing them out.
Might not have time to see you at the beach tomorrow morning. So behave yourselves....not !!

Well, it's been a very long day and I have to be up at five to get to the airport so I'm taking my weary loppy self to bed.

Goodnight, good loppies. Hope to be able to report in during the week, but if not be assured the various visitors coming to the fest will keep you informed of my shenanigans. Watch out, London, here I come!

Have a restful sleep travelling Loppies.

Update to Loppy stats
Blog dates/ Numbers of posts/ days/ Posts per day
20 Jun -12 Jul Posts 1042 Days 22 Posts per day =47
12 Jul – 31 Jul Posts 1475 Days 19 Posts per day =78
31 Jul - 21 Aug Posts 1633 Days 21 Posts per day =78
21 Aug – 4 Sep Posts 1505 Days 14 Posts per day =108
4 Sep - 14 Sep Posts 1003 Days 10 Posts per day =100
14 Sep – 25 Sep Posts 1164 Days 11 Posts per day =106
25 Sep – 15 Oct Posts 1447 Days 20 Posts per day =72
15 Oct – 01 Nov Posts 1395 Days 17 Posts per day = 82

Shirley, and others sorry you're having such a bad time of it with the fireworks, my dog's OK she's a springer so I guess she thinks it's the guns, although we've never worked her I suppose it's inbred in a gun dog, my old boy was the same, not fazed at all.
I must admit I love fireworks, unfortunately to get really pretty, you have to have really loud, (unless you're into sparklers) but I do agree it should be for Nov 5th, or maybe the nearest Saturday, and Dec 31st only, and then only at organised events.

Jo4, Shirley, what dogs do you have?

Shirley, Eva, Kathleen, I loved John Thaw too, I recorded the last Morse, didn't get round to watching it, and can't bear to now. I greatly admire Sheila Hancock, have you read her book The Two Of Us? Excellent

Geri, safe journey, wish I was coming to the Gerifest, enjoy your time over here.

Eva, from last night I think, Donovan was a bit of a hero of mine, always did like the curls, although I must admit our boy's are the ultimate.

V short Lee outside theatre
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=10Fd5S-p7do

..well it's a bit like the Battle of the Somme here at the moment - all I can hear is explosions - can't see anything pretty, just hearing loud bangs! Spent the afternoon doing irxxxng, still a bit left to do (drat). Watched Strictly - loved Letita's outfit this week (perhaps they heard me complaining!). Off to bed now so Sweet Meads all and Safe Journey Geri - see you Wednesday!

Sue- I used to have a very old springer, she was nearly deaf and blind. She used to catch birds in the undergrowth by scenting them out. She would retrieve a ball in the dark by running all around the field, and sniff out the ball. The only sound she could hear were very loud. So she had no trouble with fireworks at all. I developed a loud whistling technique to get her to come back. (Luckily) she also had arthritus so if she tried to run off I could run and catch her. She was so full of spring even with all her illnesses I realised I should never have a young springer, it would wear me out. I have a German Shepherd now, a softy.

Identified totally with your coment Shirley about the Grumpy Old Women getting younger - or is it that I am getting older?

Just realised that i am going to be in London on tues for a work thing - why couldnt they have made it Wed as it finished mid pm and I could have joined the gerifest. Oh well I will just have to go shopping instead but a loppy meeting would have been much much nicer.

Enjoyed Strictly and agreed loved Letitia and Penny but also thought Aleesha was excellent. Even with the kilt cant find it in my heart to say kenny excelled.

Peace has been declared, so I've been out and HOORAY, I will now have GMYAS in my car. (And I can load multiple cds in the machine, well it's amazing what you find out after you've had a car 7 months) CD burning was a success. So that's point 10 on signs of Loppiness covered today; digital camera unloading, cd burning and use of cd player in car.

Well Ploppy safely home. 2 dogs been out - poor dog still to scared. Sue, I have 2 belgian shepherds and Maisie is a belgian shepherd/lab cross. All nutters. Wonderful dogs but the only one with enough brain to be dangerous is Maisie and the lab in her is so stomach oriented she is easy to train.

Good night all - after a stressful evening all round I am hitting the sack. Hope everyone is having a quieter time now, sleep well and Sweet Meads.

Very impressive Jo4!
Well, the party was a success. I had written a warning note for all the surrounding houses that there might be a few bangs. Madge is ok with fireworks and just sat in our bedroom.
They didn't go on too long and ploppy managed not to set himself alight so all's well that ends well. I agree that they go on forever though. I don't like Halloween really either. We usually take our two to the cinema to avoid it. However, this year eldest dollop wanted to go out as her two best friends were trick/treating and they all do it in their area so we just took youngest dollop to the cinema. It seems like legalised begging to me and should just be for the younger children. Plus they never seem to have any tricks anymore.
Trying to watch Parky but the mulled wine is dulling my senses. Off to bed soon.
Have a great flight Geri. See you Wed!

I'm off as well, packed lunches all ready for Sunday. The tribe have settled, as only the odd explosion in the distance now.
Nightlee night.

Hi just a quick post before bed.

Jane E Captain Shakespeare was an inspired character and played by Robert Deniro- he was great and really made us laugh.

Karen- hope your cat has come home safely. Debbie glad your party went so well. Geri i hope you are getting some sleep and have a great week.

We went to a small bonfire do at a local hall with some friends. It was very good and the kids all played together so us adults got to sit and chat which was great. I don't really enjoy Bonfire Night as i am terrified of fire but the kids enjoy it so we always go to a small organised event for them. Hope everyone has had a safe night.

Up at 6 again in the morning for more work-double money at the weekend so very useful with Xmas on the horizens!

Night all.

Good morning all you lovely Loppies. One of these good days the early shift clocking on is going to meet the late shift clocking off.

Well Eva is on her way to collect Sonja and thence to Heathrow for Geri. Hope you all have a great day, and looking forward to hearing all your exploits. SEE YOU ON WEDNESDAY.

It was 4.41 before my poor dog plucked up courage to go out and have a pee. Adopted the pose and stood there for about 3 minutes. He must have been so uncomfortable poor little idiot. But anyway everyone has been out for a good sniff this morning so all happy now. (Not including me you understand - we have indoor facilities these days!!!!!!!!!!!)

The BHB muttered to me that he was heading off to visit his folks in Southend today. Says there is no way he is risking staying in town with those three nutters out and about. As he has been so flexible and accompanied us to the desert at very short notice last week I decided he could have the day off. He has been working very hard, and was looking just a tad tired. Rumour has it that some extra special visitors want to see him in his evening job this week and next, so we need him in fine fettle.

So things are going to be a little different in the BeachCafe/Bistro this morning. I am mindful that it is less than 3 weeks until I fly off for some winter sun, so am going to need to appoint someone to run our catering facility in my absence. So this morning we are giving YOU the opportunity to try out for the job. Brief CVs and a practical demonstration of your skills and abilities will be required. This open application process with close soon so get you applications in for this demanding yet rewarding post. The successful candidate will get to spend the week after CiN working with the BHB and I to ensure a smooth handover.

Morning Beach Bunnies - here I am at the Bistro, and what's this on the door? A notice saying the BHB is away at the moment, but applications for Catering Supervisor are invited. I'll just sit here on this large (very large) pebble and write mine.
I feel I have the necessary attributes to undertake this job satisfactorily. I am an inventive and creative cook. I find alcohol always helps when preparing new dishes - that's both in the dishes and in me. Any malicious rumours that I have been know to try to burn down kitchens is untrue. I am kind and caring to all my staff (especially those with bumpy hair). My culinary skills are second to none - my scrambled eggs a la vino are talked about with awe; my porridge au vodka is a must for anyone needing a kick start to the morning; I can make any sort of coffee (liquer of your choice); my sausages and bacon avec gin and juniper berries are a must. Toast and alcohol marmelade is another speciality de la maison. I trust you will find my cv of interest and look forward to an interview shortly (I am available Wednesday afternoon this forthcoming week).

Good morning all

Sorry to hear you had a bad night last night Shirley, Karen, Jo4, etc. Nice quiet morning on the beach needed.

Ooo - a new career oppertunity! Let's see, - requirments - being able to cook - ah, I fall at the first hurdle - Ploppy doesn't let me anywhere near the oven. My culinary skills peak at cheese on toast.

Sometimes, I'm allowed to peel potatoes.

Ooops! Forgot to say - hope Geri has a good flight and Eva & Sonja find her easily - have a fantastic time girls. I wish I could be there!

Good morning, I have just finished preparing a couple of lasagnes (one meat and one veggie, both with red wine of course) for tea later, working this afternoon so had to do it early. Does this qualify me for the vacancy? I do have a food hygiene certificate as well!!
No time to stop and chat now unfortunately, and probably won't be back til tomorrow as I'm taking sloppy to a CiN gala concert tonight (Opera Babes, Ruthie Henshall, Louis de Bernieres etc.) should be a good night?
see ya later!

How rude of me - happy landings Geri and have a great time, wish I could join you but I'm sure there will be another opportunity?

To Bistro manager: I will not be applying for the vacancy. I have been told my cooking 'sucks' and as a manager I'm too 'soft' on my staff. Also my time keeping in the morning is rubbish.

This morning I'll have my usual low cal option- fruit platter and diet coke. Where is that waiter? Given the day off, and they say I'm too soft. Bad ankle you say, and important visitors for his evening job next week. I suppose one day of would not be too much, he does work hard.

Morning all - it's a lovely bright sunny day here today - and lovely and peaceful after last nights battlefield so I intend to enjoy a quiet day before it all starts agan tonight.

I cannot apply for the bistro job as I have a reference to give and it would be a conflict of interests. As Deputy Chief Lushoppy, I can say that my leader Carol, the Chief Lushloppy deserves to have the job as she is always up bright and early (to get the alcostuff ready), is never late (with the alcostuff), pays attention to detail (like putting alcostuff in everything) and leads by example (like eating/drinking all the alcostuff). Finally, just take a look at her menu - lushloppy heaven!!!!!

Btw - hope Geri has landed safely. Have a fantastic time Geri and all you Gerifesters - keep us informed of what you're all up to!

Morning/afternoon all. I second Jo4's reasons for not applying for the catering vacancy - tho i do have to say Jo4 that I think the being soft on staff is prob a virtue when your staff is a certain BHB.

Ali have a brill time at sloppy's CiN concert tonight.

Eva and carol i think you have been very remiss in not doing my i.....g too as I now have a huge mound of it and sun is shining - far too nice for i......g. Esp as still doing leftover h.......k from yesterday - perhaps not such a good idea to leave it so long next time. As sloppy would say - have found dirt in places where didnt even know there were places!

Anyway off to enjoy sunshine - and hang up yet more washing. Hope all going well with Geri et al. As karen says look forward to hearing about all your exploits

Ah Fi, I know that feeling - I too have a huge mound of i***ning looking at me in an accusing manner. I don't care! I refuse to do it on a Sunday - Sunday is for slobbing about!

Jane E I wish!! Unfortunately Sunday is a day of w..k for me, but I've just been told I don't have to go in til 1pm so time for a quick surf.
Maggie I bet you're at the local derby aren't you? Think the result is a foregone conclusion but the other side may still surprise you!!

I'm with you Jane E - Sunday is for slobbing not w*****g. Having said that I have just spent a lovely half hour getting hot and sweaty with the GO - steady on, I was on the treadmill, he was on the dvd!!!!

It's strange, I used to have drag myself onto the treadmill and only ever managed about 15 mins cos I find it so boring. Now though with the GO on the dvd player I can stay on there for ages!!! Wonder why!!!!!!!! See, the GO is helping me work on my body for loife and trust me there's a lot of it to work on!!!!

Karen - you have just given me a brilliant idea. We have spare cheap DVD player that is sitting in older scollops's deserted room. i can purloin that and put it with TV in small room where our stepper is (and never used!). Ok - of to do that now - forget the ir......g. I might just get a body for loife out of this - hmm but anyway I can watch my DVD. Well done and thank you Karen.

BTW CO hex still about - no hot water (apart from the kind I always get into!) aagh. Plumber only came last week too for something else and trying to get him for another 6 months...

You're welcome Fi - who said exercise can't be fun and what better incentive than watching the GO!!

Ooo Ali, having to w**k on a Sunday -eek!

Karen & Fi, good for you both, go for that Body for Loife! I'm still not 100%, so I'm going to wait another week then it's back to the gym!

Right, I'm off to church

Spot little Lee - LoveLEE photo of Lee taken in 1990 with his classmates at Friars Junior School!

Sent in by his teacher!!!!!

See latest news and see if you can spot him!

Donna
xxxxx

Ah Donna-I'd recognise those legs anywhere.

(Thinks-and what was I doing in 1990!)

.....And the megawatt smile

Jo4 - I'm trying not to think of the fact that in 1990 I was 25!!!!!!!!!

Karen, I'm not even working it out.

...and the eyes.

I got married in 1990!

Jane E-I split from 'he who must not be named' in 1989. So 1990 was also a good year for me too.

Hey, Jo4 - I only said I got married - I never said it was a good year! (OOpps I forgot - he knows about this site - only joking, Ploppy darling!)

That magazine interviewer who kept referring to Lee's hair reminded me of Helen Fielding's 'Briget Jones Diary' where our heroine goes to Rome to interview Colin Firth and she keeps asking him about his wet shirt. Surely it was meant as a joke?
My camera has conked out so I am looking at the possibles, so much choice, how technology moves on in 4 years. The latest closeups by Val on LMAS are amazing.
Little Lee, oh how sweet. Always loved the early pics on his website.
I thought there was something 'My Fair Lady' about Alesha on SCD last night, touchingly fresh and charming.

Well the battlefield has started again here and I'm off out for the evening (I shall be in the pub so, thankfully, will not be able to hear all those horrid bangs). The cat is safely tucked up under the sofa with the GO cd on full volume and on repeat so she can't hear them either - lucky cat listening to the CO all evening whilst I have to go out and have a glass or two, or three, or four..........

Have a good evening everybody!

That should, of course, been "listening to the GO" not the CO!!!!! God forbid!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The battle started here an hour ago. Big black cat under side board, dog under table, then following me about.
Have a good evening Karen.

Ah, thanks Vali, I knew that Heat interview reminded me of something I'd read before!

Good job you posted that correction Karen, I was going to report you to the RSPCA - playing the CO to your cat! Have a lovely evening.

SCD results on.
Before I move nearer the TV:
Question: How many animals can you get in a very, very small bathroom when the fireworks are going on?
Answer: 4, one human doing her hair for some very special meeting next Weds, one large dog and 2 cats (one large and one small).
Cats and dog now under table at my feet. Don't know where they will be when I move.... here goes.

What a wonderful weekend.. The weather was wonderful, and Winchester is a beautiful city, althought we did, as a natural for a bunch of girlfriends who haven't seen each other for a long time, talk and talk and talk. As predicted, those that I hadn't heard of the GO (I know... incredulous isn't it??) are now quite keen to see his Beautfulness in live action - watching a video on a mobile phone, doesn't quite convince the uninitiated. So I've been given the task to get tickets for one evening - I refused to consider a matinee - it's too risky now... what with Nana Jean's crybaby in the mix now. But I had to laugh at them I'm afraid - told them they'd be lucky to get seats together on any particular night - I could see they thought I was just being an over zealous Loppy.. so I suggested that one of them would be welcome to try... as long as I was included in the event. The asked if they would be called Floppies (friends of a Loppy.. it was then I had to inform them of the Glossary - the commandments, the constitution etc., etc..) great hilarity ensued. I told them they had to be, until they'd seen the GO in action, Cloppies - when they would quite naturally become fully fledged Loppies..... But bless em, and this is why of course they are my friends, they let me and even encouraged me to tell all - - and the gales of laughter could be heard all over the breakfast room at the hotel as I regaled them all of our beach expeditions, the BHB and his attire, the trip to yorkshire, the recent camel expedition - and I don't know if anyone else caught it on Wossy on Saturday a.m. - but the CO was on... now this is the most uncanny thing... he talked about how he had recently been in saudi and around camels ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! It was then that Suzie-friend said "Oh, that's why you turned the radio up right in the middle of my sentence - and laughed at the "CO" - I then had to explain "CO"...
Also, whilst we were finally doing a bit of 'sight seeing' I received a call from my cousin with some bad news.. and when my friends saw my reaction, they said - Oh dear, the GO hasn't sprained his other ankle, has he?" O I just love my friends. They entre the spirit of things 100%.
WOW, those close ups of Vals are stupendous. Large barrel time - forget thebuckets. And the school photo!!! His smile just gives him away - not that he intended to hide. It's lovely to know that what we see today has not been 'manufactured', it's as we all feel, his natural charisma just bursting forth.
Hope Geri's had a good first day back in Blighty.. full of Loppyness.. look forward to hearing all about it, and to seeing everyone coming the the Gerifest on Wednesday.. I'll be in the later shift - about 6.30pm - so Lushloppies- pace yourselves please. Ooo, i'm so execited for this week.
Right – SCD results on, and must get into gear to prepare myself for the week!! Hope to pop back a little later.

Oh meant to also say that I have received donations from my friends to add to the CiN coffers... wasn't that cool?

I am submitting my CV for the position of Bistro Manageress:

Name: Debbielee Loppy
Address: Mead Meadows
Age: Don't be so rude!
Status: Junior lushloppy
Education: Southend-on-Sea Primary
University of Loife
(How's it going Shirley?)
Qualifications: Wines & Spirits Certificate
Food Handling Certificate
Bodyguard Certificate
Interests: Musical Theatre
Winetasting
Cookery
Sandsports
Lee Mead (of course)

I would be excellent for this position as I possess all the right attributes. I am a strict disciniplarian and would discourage underage drinking in this establishment (Loppies need not fear there then).

AW! I didn't want little Dom to go out. 10/10 for effort.
Nice to hear of your day Auds. You did well to try and recruit. When I look at Lee's school photo it seems positively obscene to fancy him when I would have been 26 when that pic was taken! Oh well, in my head I'm only about 25 now.
Got to watch X Factor recording now with rest of family. I made them watch Strictly first though. Best Reality Show indeed!

Auds-sounds like you had a wonderful time. All those possible conversions! And collecting for CiN! You will have a time sprinkling your friends all around the theatre. And you had time for sight seeing. Fancy CO being in Saudi, fact and fiction again.

Battle is close again. Dog back under table.

Aw, Auds, what lovely friends! Perhaps more Loppies in the making.

Yep,Debbie, I'm also sorry to see Dom go - he was full of fun!

Shirley - what's the closing date for tis job application? You've got a fair few candidates now!

Hamster is on. A reminder, as I forgot last week.

Well, hello there all. Just back from a Loppyday in London, and it has been so good. We arrived at Heathrow in plenty of time this morning because the plain was 1 hour late, but funnily enough Sonja& I didn't have any problem filling the time with talk, talk and more talk. Finally the plain from Dublin landed and we stood there waiting for The Little Woman of Ireland, and there she was ! We saw each other at the exact same moment and there was shouting "There she is" and "There you are". Never any doubt at all. The chatting started straight off and on the way into London and Geri's hotel there wasn't a moments silence. But we suddenly realised that we ahd been chatting for almost 30 minutes almost without mentioning Himself. Well, we soon put that right, I can tell you. It is so wonderful to talk to someone else who know exactly what and who you are talking about, and when you mention certain seconds in NY NY the others just nod and know !!!!!
To cut a long story short, we found the hotel without problems, parked the car, Geri checked in, and we went for a stroll. Is anybody surprised that after 10 minutes we were standing outside The Adelphi gazing with rapture at the lovely photographs ? Then of course we had to photograph each other with Lee in the background. Another little walk, and we were sitting in The Pub. It is a very nice place, but almost empty when we got there. We talked and talked and laughed, had lunch, and.........LushLoppies take note : Not a drop of alcohol passed our lips !!!! I know, I know, we let the side down.
Afterwards we strolled over to Covent Garden. The weather was lovely, lots of people and our eyes constantly peeled just in case we should catch a glimpse of some dark curls and a beaming smile. Shirley,- you could have told us that you had sent him to Southend-on-Sea !!!!
We finally walked Geri back to the hotel, fetched the car, and after lots of hugs, said our good byes and see you on Wednesday.
The real fun started when trying to get OUT of London. Crikey, - it took us 2 hours to reach Sidcup !!!! I don't envy those who have to cope with all that traffic every day. It was sheer heaven to reach M20 and let the car find its own usual tempo down south.
It was such a good day. It is amazing how well you know people you haven't even met before !!! I can't wait to meet the rest of you on Wednesday.
Btw. Geri and I had a nice little chat about Cliff baby while Sonja listened politely. It is permitted on a Loppymeet.
It has been a long day with a lot of driving, so I think my bed will be a good place for me to be now.
I'll see you tomorrow on the beach, and no,- I will not apply for the cook/chef job. I know what you think of my Norwegian specialities and I won't be insulted every morning !!!!

Good evening Loppies. Knackered of the M4 here. Took Ploppy back up to Heathrow - traffic busy, but we had allowed enough time so made it in good order for him to catch his plane. I thought the trip home would be a doddle. But Oh no. I have been sitting in traffic jam for about 2hours. I am knackered and near to tears. Arrived back to find dogs had peed and poo'd in the kitchen. Oh joy. House now stinks of bleach and I am watching the Hampster trying to cheer up. Friendly Loppy words would be appreciated. What a wuss, but I have just had it.

Auds - loved hearing about your weekend - sounds such fun.
Eva - loved hearing about you and Sonja meeting Geri, cant wait to see you all on Wednesday. .And I should have mentioned that you are specifically exculded from the job - I would come back to a ruined business with the sort of food you like!!

Debbie I love the applications from both you and Carol - thinking of working a weekly job share. Need one more credible applicant and you can run it for one week each.

Sympathy being poured down the link now, Shirley, you will shortly experience a warm pink glow tickling your ears and gently sliding down like suds to your toes.
I had a good laugh, remembering Auds favourite pic is 'Sleeping beauty' to read on LJ the latest comment today in connection with this about the black cat.
Have tel voted in D Exp poll (LJ reminder says deadline tonight) it would be nice if it had confirmed who it was for.

Eva sounds like you had a great time,
Shirley terrible traffic I suggest a nice bath with some GOod music. You'll feel better in no time.

More voting to do
Go to Donna's site Latest news for Record of the week vote
Loppy Duty calls everybody

Aww Shirley! Big virtual hug! Sorry to hear about your 'orrible day.

Eva - fantastic! Isn't it brilliant how the Loppies just get on so well. I'm sure everyone going along on Wednesday will have a wonderfull time (and yes, I'm gutted to be missing out!)

Evening all Loppies - Shirley sorry you had a bad journey, Auds, Sonja and Geri glad you all had brilliant weekends! Little concerned about the lack of alcohol though!! Had rehearsal all afternoon - went quite well. Back to watch SCD and then cooked Ploppy's dinner. Now feel totally worn out and going to have an early night and a read, so it's good night from her, and sweet Meads to all. Karen thank you for my glowing reference! See you all bright and early on the beach.

Oh thanks Vali, that feels a lot better. Jo4 it was only the GO singing to me in the car that kept me going. Mercifully the migraine medication held out, or I would have had a huge problem. Anyway, off to bed soon. Oh, while I was trying to change back the disc I ended up listening to one of the London chat shows and they were doing an audio commentary on the Strictly results show, so at least I knew what was happening there.

Goodnight all and Sweet Meads.

Glad you had such a great weekend Auds- your friends sound great fun, and glad to hear you got Geri ok Eva and had such a great day. Hope you all enjoy Wednesday.

Shirley sorry to hear about your nightmare journey and glad you made it back in one piece.

I took my mother-in-law shopping today and taked about the GO most of the time which was great fun. I was hoping for a quiet hour on my own to watch my DVD's but no such look as Ploppy and kids came back 15 mins after i got home!

I got married too in 1990 aged 23.

Might have to watch last weeks Spooks now as we watch it on Catch Up TV which only lasts a week. I enjoy it and old Rupert whatever is very nice but i do get a bit confused and i understand this weeks was very confusing. I am very tired so may either nod off or lose the plot but hopefully Ploppy may stay awake- although he always falls asleep too! Never mind we will give it a go and i will check in tomorrow.

Night all.

I'm off now
Nightlee night all

Carol, you had an alcohol rehearsal all afternoon? Surely that wasn't called for with your qualifications?
Hope you feel better now Shirley. A few more reads on here should raise a smile. I forgot to mention that the bistro would be shut from 6am - 3pm and may have to become an evening wine bistro (as opposed to a morning wine bistro). I don't do earlies. Does that make my application void?
Glad you all had a good day Eva. It's making me less nervous for Wed. But what if you all don't like me or no one recognizes me? Should I have a drink beforehand on the train (I have been known to put a little vodka in a water bottle for the way up to London) or save it until I've met you all? What a quandry!
Have done my duty and voted for record of the week.
Forced early start so off to bed.
Sleep well. x

Debbie, somehow I don't think you need worry!

Bed time for me too - night night all

Poor you Shirley, what a homecoming after being stuck in traffic jam for hours. Hope you're now feeling better and migraine averted.

So glad to hear that Geri arrived safely and that you three had a good day Eva and Sonja, sorry to hear of your dreadful journey home though

Looking forward to meeting up on Wednesday, like Debbie, I do feel a bit nervous about it, though I'm sure it will be fine.

Evening all - yes I know you've all gone to bed but just thought I'd check in anyway - talking about bad journey's we got home about 15 mins ago although we left the pub over an hour ago and it's a 10 minute journey home. There was a huge accident - three ambulances, two fire engines, I hate to see it. Then when we got passed that the plonker in the car in front of us was clearly well oiled, he mounted the kerb twice, spun round in the middle of the road, then veered off and went flying down a grassy hill. Our taxi driver got straight on the radio to report it - I was a bag of nerves.

So, Shirley, I know how you feel - lots of loppy love coming your way - hope you've calmed down by now.

Geri, Eva & Sonja - glad you had a good day.

Debbie - chill - I'm sure they'll all love you, especially if you bring a water bottle filled with Vodka - make sure you do the same when I get to meet you won't you!!

OK, as I'm talking to myself I shall be away to my bed.

See you all tomorrow.

Sneaking in while you are all asleep to see what you have been up to! I am still very busy with my special project:-) Hope to get more time soon to join in but have managed to pre-order my album. Would love to go to the Maria/Joseph show but no chance of arranging cheap travel/accomodation at short notice, will have to do with watching on TV. Looking forward to hearing reviews from anyone lucky enough to get there. Oh my 'cooker' just went ping again...lol see you soon!

Morning Beach Bunnies - goodness who's that huddled in a corner - Carys, fast asleep. Better ask the BHB to help her into the Bistro.....she looks like she needs a little warmth and liquid refereshment! Today I am going to trial my scrambled eggs a la vino for you. The BHB is on hand to learn the intricacies of this dish, which will be served from 7am onwards. Geri has just arrived with copious amounts of the Irish stuff, so we will be fine. See you in a moment!

Good morning Loppies,

Karen - Glad you got back safe last night, after following that drunkard. It seems last night was the time for nightmare journeys.

Carol, what on earth are you trying to feed Carys?

Good morning all you beach bunnies. Be very very careful on your way to the beach this morning - really foggy - I think that contributed to the accidents on both carriageways of the motorway last night. Thanks so much for all you kind thoughts. I slept better than I have in months - so they worked like a charm. And Karen your journey sounded a nightmare too. When my Ploppy was driving home from Heathrow on Saturday night he started off down the A4 because of troubles on the M4 - he was put on the alert by the driver in front of him braking hard, and when he got to the spot there were a couple of drunks staggering about - one very determindly pushing the other in front of the traffic. Wonderful fun I'm sure!!!!!!!!!!!

Mabs, Debbie - dont worry at all. Just follow the shrieks of laughter - always works for me. It will be so good to meet lots more Loppies. OOOOHHHH excited.

Carys you really must get some sleep - you have been doing so much to help keep Loppies sane. With all the cooking you do maybe you should apply for the catering manager (temporary) job in the BeachCafe/Bistro. Not sure that Debbie has the right idea at all. Maybe we could timeshare and Carol run the morning service, and Debbie do the Bistro evening bit??? Just a tad concerned that with 2 seriously lushLoppies at the helm I will come back to a load of alcie's (sp?). I, of course, will be living abstemiously in the home of RUM - rum punch, rum and coke, dark and stormy - oh yes, very very abstemiously.

Right ladies. BeachCafe/Bistro open for business. Happy to report that the BHB is back to his bouncy best, but maybe a little to soon to start chasing him around, but I do expect him to work for his pay this morning. (All tips at your discretion)

To go with the scrambled eggs a la vino I have some wonderful bacon - cured in some of my sloe gin - and I can assure you it feels no pain whatsoever - just to show I can do the alcoholic cooking too.

We can offer a full carry out service today, and taking orders for lunch - jacket potatoes, chilli - beware I use West Indian hot sauce - a nice warming casserole, and for the vegges amongst us my version of a Spanish omlette with some chard brights fresh from the garden. But if you insist we can do a full range of sandwiches, bagettes, etc etc etc. Just order when you arrive on the beach for your walk and it will be ready for you to collect when you leave.

Have just come in from work and haven’t checked the blog yet so I’m not sure if you have heard this .On sky showbiz they have just mentioned that WAIT FOR IT ……..
CO (yes Jason) is going to take over from LEE!! For six weeks when GO finishes his run next year .Also they will be speaking to Lee this week on sky news active.(showbiz) Now going back to read what you all have been up to.

OMG Maggie, thanks for that. Just switched over to Sky - do they repeat the showbiz thing? Not convinced the CO will put any more bums on seats than Lewis is managing. I mean you only have to compare them singing to get a clue about the disparity of talent distribution. But it certainly means that Lee is moving on to something else. How exciting.

The CiN site have added Radio Pudsey. They are looking for record requests – I have asked for ‘Why cant we work things out’ already – and they are after ?s for their guests. They are not listing Lee as a guest yet, but given that he is opening the show well worth submitting some I should think. Might convince them to add him to their guest list.

OK, that should of course be 'Why Cant we Make Things Work' - slapped hand.

Shirley press the red button on your remote control (once you are on sky news) then you should get the active site, which has 8 screens then press showbiz. It is on a loop and you will hear it.

Shirley don't press 4 showbiz - move to screen 7 showbiz

Why an earth are they putting the CO in for Lee - for one thing he's far too OLD!! But good to know that Lee will be going on to something else (unless its just an extended holiday). I'm sure most people would prefer to see Craig, Lewis or even Keith the teeth step in for our fabulous GO but the CO???. I think the show will close soon after Lee has finished - it all smacks of desparation to me.

Shirley did you get it ok then ?

Maggie, what time was that report on Sky News? I recorded then just watched the showbiz report at 6:45 (thanks to a tip on LMAS) but nothing was mentioned. I had it on again at 7:45 to see if it was on again but they didn't have showbiz news at all. I only get basic Sky News so am wondering what times to record this week to hopefully catch Lee's interview.

As for the report you mentioned, is that as unbelievable to anyone else as it is to me? Sorry, but I find it hard to imagine him managing to pull that off after seeing him perform at Diana's concert. But maybe he is still popular enough to get people to buy tickets to see him?

Are you pressing your RED BUTTON
Ihave seen it so many times now!!!!

Good morning all. This bistro is wonderful serivce - tea and porridge fro breakfast served by lovely waiter with very expressive eyebrows. perurbed to see he is limping a bit but he assures me he is on the mend - but no walks this morning - need to rest the foot for his eve job. Order for tuna and salad baguette fro lunch - no more packed lunches to make - hurrah.

Sorry to hear about all nightmare journeys last night - and glad everyone made it safely home and slept well. Ploppy always makes us carry huge emergency supplies (tea, biscs, books etc) when going on journeys - and he is treated with great hilarity with this but his planning came into its own when stuck on M25 once fro 3 hours with air ambulances and more land ambulances than i have ever seen in my life whizzing around.

Interesting news maggie - 6 weeks seems very short time - not 6 months? Poor Lewis he must be gutted but good news that Lee will be moving onwards and upwards (and not in a cherry picker). Have agood day

It will be on again soon

Haven't managed to see Lee yet on the sky showbiz thing - all they are showing is the CO looking very much younger as he has hair so it must be an old old film (what a con - if they thought Sheamus was too old to play the part) with the song ADWD playing in the background. He says he still has the coat - that he may have but he doesn't have anywhere near the talent! Hopefully he will be a huge flop.

IT'S ON

Good morning all. I think I must have entered the den of The Merry Widows of Windsor. Everyone is milling about, dancing and clapping, not at all the usual serene atmosphere of the Bistro. Ah, I can see why now,- Carol has put out all her alcohol dishes for pre-tasting and everybody is tucking in. I'll have a bacon sarnie with some of your specially cured bacon, Shirley.
Good morning, sweetheart. You're looking happy too this morning. You had a good Sunday in Southend-on-Sea ? Shirley told you to go for your own health's sake.? It had been reported that some mad foreigners would be on the prowl for you? That Shirley needs shaking !!!!! It was only Geri, the Irish Little One, Sonja the Finnish Redhead and MOI !!!! Of course, we didn't prowl. We were having a dignified stroll. You are sorry you left London? I thought so.
I forgot to mention yesterday the enormous coffee urn Geri brought with her. We did get some funny looks at Heathrow carrying it out to the car. Geri, being the size she is, was completely hidden behind it, so what people saw, was this big urn with two feet, staggering along being supported by two giggling females.
OK, Shirley,- if you'd rather have two permanently p****d cooks turning customers into alcoholics rather than a Viking Master Chef who'll only throw in a bit of fish now and then, on your head be it.
I won't tell you how old I was in 1990, but I was certainly old enough to know better.
Oh, thank you Shiley,- you want me to taste your lunchtime West Indian hot sauce ? That is so kind of you. POW WOW,- that was me going up in smoke. Me thinks she doesn't love me anymore.

Maggie, not seen it yet but I am on the right bit because they just said about JD reprising a role - but which one? Thanks for telling me where to look though. Ah - here we go. The hunky Lee Mead. Sounds good. They phrase it when he leaves JD is very keen to reprise it for 6 weeks- does not sound like a done deal to me. But I guess they want to try and keep it on over the school holidays, and it will then close.

BUT ladies, and this is where I was when you first posted where to find it Maggie, there are still some seats for the Tearfest. And we know for sure it is Lee's last night as Joseph so worth pulling out all the stops to get there. Lots of Loppies already in the house so even sitting in a single seat you will be near a friend. And we can maybe plan another stay over??? Tempted to try for the matinee on 7.6 as well. Make a real day of it!!!

Morning! Maggie I went to the CiN gala concert last night and saw an interview with Jim Magilton and Bryan Gunn, very funny!
Surprised byt he news on Sky - wondered if Lewis would continue but didn't think CO would be the next choice? Oh well, time will tell!

Ooh yes Shirley, we were just saying that last week at the EAfest, would be great to book several rooms and stay over. Maggie quick, get your ticket now!

Shirley were are the seats?

Morning all

Ooh Shirley - what a good idea - a double dose of the GO on tearfest day.

And Jane E, Louise and myself will def need an overnight stay so would be good if all loppies could stay in the same hotel.

Ali - did you have a good time at the concert?
Also one happy scollop!
Eva - glad you all had a good day with Geri.

Morning late comers, still plenty of scrambled eggs a la vino to go round - have to say complemented nicely by Shirley's cured bacon. The BHB has mastered the art of the scrambled eggs very well, and is keen to try some of my other dishes. We have of coursh hadd to tasht the phood and the BHB shays it iss verry good for hish vocal chordsh. We are jusht going to shpend a few minutesh sitting here quietlee. Thank you Shhirlee for the black coffee, just caught up re the CO - are they mad?? Also bit of a kick in the teeth for Lewis (if not Keef)! Perhaps they have found tickets for his cover weeks aren't going well and decided not to risk 6 weeks! Shame!

Maggie I just looked on See and they are still showing some availability right at the top, but saying to phone 0870 890 0149 for seats elsewhere. They are not showing them as Sold Out. Yet. So ring the box office and get what you can. I am just going to see what I can get for the matinee.

One of my son's - was 10yrs old in 1990!!

Maggie, you really shouldn't have started your family at 13, but we understand that these things can happen!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am hanging on for See who keep telling me they usually answer within 2 minutes. YAY 2 tickets in the Dress Circle for the matinee. Precious few seats left in the whole theatre. And I already have Row A - remember those seats Auds - Row A for the evening show. YYIIPPPEEE

Shirley how can you say that about me I was a good girl I was!
I’m coming toooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo Just booked !!
Upper/C (But can swap with you - if you want?) I can stay at mum’s (hope I can be out late - ha ha)

The reason they haven’t got sold out on some of them (the better seats) is because the producers release a few more tickets nearer the date if they are not entertaining or don’t need as many

Morning Gerifest Loppies (sorry everyone else) just to confirm that I have the following down as coming on Wednesday - Geri (strangely), Auds, Eva, Gillian, Sonja, Shirley, Jo, Debbie Mabs and me! If there is anyone else please email me on the office email. Thanks - the rest of you may rest assured that you will have several glasses raised to you "in absentium", and here's to Stratford!

Morning Everyone!!

OOh I am soo jealous that you are all off to see the GO!! Full reports and pictures please!! Especially medical reports!! If anyone is lucky enough to actually speak to Lee (or any of the staff) at the after show scrum can you ask what he actually did to his ankle and how?? Also give him our love and and say how much we are all looking forward to hearing the album! I am singing 'Why Can' We Make Things Work' and I have only heard it twice - so its very catchy!!

Hey well done Maggie. I was just trying to lose a few years for you!!!!!!!!!!!

Hope lots of you have some lovely photos in your mail boxes. If anyone now feels deprived let me know. They are now down to £2.56 a shot - and they are stunning. Carol has dissolved already, and nothing to do with the alcohol (for once!!!!!)

squidge, squidge, swelch, slop!

Just read on Donna's forum that Lee is going to do a record signing at HMV on Oxford Street on Monday 19 November!! As usual I will miss him - I am at work!!

Wow! What a busy morning!

I'm absolutely gob-smacked at the thought of the CO taking over from Lee - Shirley2 you're right - he's too old to play Jo - not that that ever stoped Jess Conrad.

Maggie - well done getting Tearfest tickets, another Loppy going - Yipee.

And, as Karen says, the three of us will definately need to stay over. Ooo - big Loppy party!

Shirley, I cant wait to see the photo! Any room in the bucket, Carol?

KAREN! - Thunderbirds are go for the 29th! I've got the afternoon off. Yorkshirefest2 'The Return'!

I hope this pair of ####### are not going ?
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=j30hRXexUnM

JEZZZ -Maggie that is scary.

After CiN we can report back on the hotel we are staying in for that. Given how early we are we should be able to get somewhere without too much trouble. Nicki did the research and booking for us this time. I know there was one at a good price right in Covent Garden but they did not have enough rooms.

OH MY POOR HEART. Just had a delivery from Amazon. 3 discs fell out. For one fabulous moment I thought they had made a mistake and sent Lee Mead out early. Sadly only some Eagles and Move complitions Ploppy must have ordered. Oh, and while I remember it Amazon have dropped their price to match those Eva and Carolyn are getting elsewhere too.

Shirley I'd love 2 pics please, will trust your excellent taste and let you choose for me! Maggie gave me a 'make your own calender' last week so I need some more pics to fill it

This is linked from Lee's official site. I am going to go. No way am I missing this. http://www.lee-mead.com/HMV_Flyer.pdf

OMG me too. I was going to have the day off w**k for CinN. No idea why because it only takes me 30 minutes to get to the Strand from my local station. I think it was to spare my colleagues the trauma of me skipping around all day singing ADWD (badly) and to try on every outfit I own only to put on what I tried on first. I think I'm going to have to swop my holiday day and come to CinN straight from work and have the Monday off to Christmas shop in Oxford Street. How exciting.

Lunch break, and full of OMG meady goodness and gorgeousness. And darn it and I'm deskbound; there are already two (out of the 6 of us) off on the 19th... I'll have to seriously think about pulling a sickie.. What an opportunity to miss. May have to be a last minute decision. (uses lots of rude words). Looking forward to Wednesday.
Back to the coal face.

....can I send bosses out that day - answer to one yes, working on the other one as HMV is only ten mins away from me here.....

It's at 1.00 and you Queen of the Lushes are also master of the long lunch hour. What's your problem?????

...because there will be queues forming from mid morning! When I was in Regent St and Tower Records had signings I used to pass people already waiting when I was going into the office at 8.30am!

Auds - I too am chipping away at the coal!! I am trying to think of a really elaborate ruse to try and get out of work! I can't even take a half day as thats from 12.30 and by the time I get into London it will all be over!!

I think that those who are lucky enough to go will have more luck in a big group as that way you can start queing early and then when you need to go to the loo someone can keep your place!! It will be interesting to see how many people are there - hopefully loads as we want the album to be as popular as possible!

Diary of a Mad Loppy:

Hi All. I am happily esconsed in an internet cafe in Leicester Sq. playing catch up. Oh, it's good to be home again!!! I could spend hours getting you up to date, but I don't want to bore everyone silly. So here are the highlights (so far!):

As Eva told you, the flight was an hour late getting in due to fog in Heathrow. Fog in London -- it's almost a cliche! But we arrived at last and, other than a slight headache, no problems. Knew the ladies as soon as I saw them, & I don't think they had any problem recognising me, either. Lots of hugs, how are yous & so forth & we set off to the city in Goldie, Eva's aptly-named chariot. You already know about our tooling around Covent Gdn in a fruitless quest to spot the GO, but we had fun even without that magical sighting. Three free loppy ladies on the town -- who would doubt it!

We ended up at the Adelphi, naturally, & had lunch at the site of the Gerifest. We've decided we shall sit upstairs where there are seats overlooking the front door so we can spot all Loppy-looking ladies as they arrive. So as you come in, loppies, look up and wave! We'll be the goofy gang waiting to meet you! Doors open at 11:00, I believe, but if anyone wants to come & see me in the hotel first (St Giles Hotel, room 561), please do. And Fi, if you are available for lunch tomorrow, call me!

After the girls left me I went to the bookshop (my hotel is five minutes from Borders & Foyles. You may have noticed I like books. Oh dear...) But headache was getting worse and with the fatigue starting to hit, went back to the hotel & took a nap. Then got up, had dinner at the hotel, then went to my room to read. Fell asleep 10-ish, then awake at 3:00 am dreaming someone was drilling a hole in my head. Shirley, you know what that feels like. Then the nausea hit & I was in full migraine mode. Felt better after I threw up (sorry -- don't mean to gross anyone out), and went back to sleep till 9:00.

Went to the dining room & found a middle-aged lady sitting alone so asked if I could join her for breakfast (there were no other seats because I was down late). So we got talking & she told me she & her husband were in town while he worked & she shopped. And, she said, she'd like to see a show. Oh, I said, which ones (crafty, me). So she said Mamma Mia & We Will Rock You. Then (I knew it was coming) -- "If I can get tickets I'd love to see Joseph!" Transpires she's from Lewis' home town but "I didn't want him to win. I wanted Lee to win & wouldn't book tickets till he did, now I'm afraid it's too late!" So I assured her the nice people in the discount tickets office would help her out, and off I went, my good deed done for the day.

So what have I done today: well, after breakfast I went to the British Museum (just five minutes from the hotel. Thanks for the recommendation, Sonja!), tutted at the Egyptians (tutted -- get it? I know, watching too much Graham Norton!), went to Baker St & did some shopping, had lunch, went to Leicester Sq & got a ticket to SoM for tonight (only one ticket available for Joseph & it was in the gods, so thought I'd be patient.), then to the National Gallery to revisit my old friend Snr Caravaggio. Oddly enough, I'm rather tired. So it was a nice excuse to come into the internet cafe & catch up.

OK, so what's this about the CO slithering his slimy way onto the Adelphi stage? Granted it's all the same to me who does or doesn't take over after the GO abdicates, but the CO? Seriously! So much for Boo-Hoo doing such a bang-up job then! Guess he wasn't as spectacular as Nanna Jean would have us believe. Either that or his one appearance on stage scared the bej*s*s out of him! Oh my!

OK, off to check Donna's site for a few before my hour runs out, then I'll check back in briefly, before I go back to the hotel & get ready for SoM.

Wow Shirley that's exciting! Another chance to be in the presence of the GO. Best of luck all you near London Loppies - hope you can get out of w*rk!

Hi Geri! Thanks for the update - sounds like your having a great time in the big city. (Nasty migraine not withstanding - hope you're over it now.) Have a fantastic time at the show, and at Geri-fest!

Oh Geri, so sorry about the migraine. Even with the medication on board it takes the gloss of things, so get better soon, and enjoy the SoM. See you the day after tomorrow.

I am in disbelief that the CO would be asked to reprise as Joe, did you hear him on Sat R2 JR Show promoting his biography talking about his years of substance abuse and how he didn't regret any of it? (even after JR tried to suggest it was not setting a good example to the kids to have that view - probably thinking it wouldn't go down too well to be promoting that lifestyle at that time of day). CO probably thinks it gives him an edgy Babyshambles/Winehouse vibe, pathetic.

Did you see that Boyzone are re-uniting? Perhaps that's why Stephen Gately left Godspell so soon. It's getting to be a crowded field, bands re-united.

Thanks for the Geri in the City update. Looking forward to more exciting episodes.

Oh Dear. As soon as it started getting dark my poor dog started getting anxious and is not frantic already. I can hear the damned fireworks starting already - and it is raining. All set for another wonderful night. Oh joy. Good luck to all beseiged animals out there, hopefully this will be the last night of wall to wall fireworks for a month or so.

Here's a more balanced news report on Lewis in his other show and on filling in for Lee.

http://www.worcesterstandard.co.uk/ents.tvt?_scope=Flow/Websites/Worcester/Ents&id=27062

Geri - great to hear from you. Glad you're having a good time but sorry about the migraine.

Battle has commenced (again!!) here too Shirley and the cat is yet again quivering wreck. As you say, lets hope it's the end of it tonight!!

You lucky London ladies, getting another chance to feast your eyes on the GO and as himself, not as Joseph - oh wow!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Wonder if I can pull a sickie, hop on a train, get to London, feast my eyes and get back home in time for dinner before ploppy realises I've gone!! Hmm!!

The same thought occurred to me Karen!

Thanks for the link Jackee

Shirley - I've just seen the photo - oh thank you! I've turned to jelly!

Wibble!

Here's a You tube video I hadn't seen before, when I play it keeps on sticking but that might just be my PC.

Exciting news about signing on the 19th.

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=Kc7HP6U-ROA

Well I am back from a nice weekend in the woods. The colours on the trees were fabulous. I don’t think I ever saw such a colour fest. But Nature gives and takes. There was no sun for the whole weekend but I am not one to complain (ahum) it was dry!
I thought being away this weekend from my PC would give me a break from Lee but funny how that goes. Just little things reminded me of him.
-Saturday I woke up with the tune of “Why can‘t we make things work” in my head. I only heard it 2-3 times. So yes it is a catchy tune.
-There were no multicoloured sheep (if you don’t count the red and green marked sheep) but when I was watching the DVD of Nanny Mcphee I saw a very pink one and a bright yellow.
-Shopping in a local village shop they were playing PiB on the radio. The Rolling Stones version. Witch for some reason I found very boring.
-Sunday we were watching a very popular TV-program in Holland with as guest Josh Groban.
I don’t have to tell you whom I was thinking off.

I just read on the Official site of Lee that he is signing on November 19th I cheered for all you Loppies who live in or near London. To have your CD signed by the man himself. Yuhoooo! I am seriously jealous though.

Geri, how is London? I have stayed in your hotel (st Giles) before. That must be about 17 years ago. I went to see the mummies in the British museum too. I thought they were creepy. Have a lovely stay and are you going to see a show now you down there??

Oh great, two lots of neighbours letting of fireworks now. Solo is frantic. I have tried doping him again. Not working. Ah, now he is settling back down, so maybe the medication is helping.

Hi Shirley - hope your dogs are ok. Fireworks still going off loudly here - grrr. We lost a cat for three days a few years ago when she was frightened off by some enormously loud fireworks (and it wasn't even Nov 5th). They seem to carry on for weeks these days. Anyway all three moggies are safely inside tonight.
Hope the Geri fest goes well on Wednesday - will we be reading reports about you in the papers on Thursday morning? And how jealous are we northerners of these folk who can pop out of work to see Lee on Nov 19th?? Well very jealous I can tell you. We expect a full report please. Wonder when our pre ordered cd's will arrive??

I've spent this evening trying to burn my first dvd. Got sound but no picture. A failure. I was so excited about my cd burning success that I went in with a positive attitude just to be dashed down to my proper non techie status.
Neighbour popped in to get the latest on the care details for Weds. Tribe will be well looked after.
I have ordered a ticket for the matinee 7th Jun, I must chase as it was weeks ago.
Got the pics Shirley, thanks. Settle up on Weds. (2 sleeps-sorry, getting a touch excited. About meeting up of course, nothing to do with going to a show.)

What Jo4? Are you going somewhere? Don't mind me, I'm with Sheila in the jealous Northerner corner! Seriously though guys, I'm sure you'll have a wonderful time.

Glad you had a nice weekend Anne, at least the rain stayed off.

Fireworks seem to be dying down a bit over here. Could the worst be over

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=tYXuRjoGfGI

Thanks Jo4, lovely way to end the evening.

Sweet meads all

Hi all. Just got on pc tonight as scollop been hogging it all night.
Maggie - well done for tearfest - great you can join us. Staying over shirley was just what we were talking about at EAfest - Ali is on a mission to scout out the hotels - is that right Ali? think it will need to be a big hotel for all the loppies - dont suppose Buck House free that night.

Really cross - in London twice this month for conferences (last time was 5 years ago) and neither time coincides with a fest or a lee sighting/signing. Geri dont think could make lunch - tho conference does look REALLY boring - tho would you be around at afternoon tea time as conference finishes just after3. I have your phone no so will text or phone if avail. Enjoy London.

Not only animals dont like the fireworks. Sloppy phoned earlier to say how upset she was with all the loud bangs. she had been watching Room with a View (prev recorded) and couldnt hear it for the noise.

BTW carys - you are a star. Thank you.

Shilrey - thanks for photo - drool, drool.

Hello to whoever's out there. Feel like I've a cold sneaking up on me... aaaargh, not before the Gerifest, pleeeeeze. so I'm wrapped up warm with my hotwater bottle - and because there's nothing on telly that draws me to watch it tonight - I'm reliving the final ADWD~. Amazing how so much better it just makes me feel - and smile.
Jackee thanks for that link - a much more sensible report on LBs talent.
Re the CO taking over the role when the GO finishes - well I could care less who does that. I know I read further up the page someone (Debbie) stating pretty much the same sentiment - It means that our GO will (I pray) be preparing for bigger and better roles in the WE. I shall be deeply saddened if he doesn't stay on in the WE but prefer to hit the recording studios - I will still buy he albums/singles of course - but I would just like to see him in the flesh more than just listen to the end result.
Geri, well done for popping in today. Love the label you gave her Vali "Geri in the City". Sounds like you're having a good time. Hope the migraine has had it's day for you.. really feel for you. I guess too much excitement for one day can have it's downsides.
Anne, welcome back - glad you had a good weekend as well. Amazing how we can make sure, without even trying, that our GO is close at hand in every little thing we see, do and hear wherever we are.
Right - having gone all around the various GO related sites since beginning this blog.... it's time to hit the sack. Now that I've seen the GO win the role..... Ah bless. He looks so so happy as he sings HIS song.
So nighty night. Hope all cats and dogs are feeling less quivery now - the fireworks have abated - finally - around here. I don't mind the sights, it's the explosions I can't stand... you see how easily I digress for the job in hand (which was to sign off and go to bed).

Evening all - late on tonight as was late home from the office, then had to cook for Ploppy then go out to my small group rehearsal (like the Battle of the Somme again on the way out), just come home and it was a little quieter, so hopefully that's all done for another year! Lovely to hear Geri is out and about and hopefully enjoyed SOM. See you all tomorrow bright and early on the beach .... don't forget wrap up warm!!

It is warm and toasty here, comment from a visitor 'gosh it's hot', after freezing at work I felt the need. And the little one has lost lots of hair, so needs the heat, that's my excuse anyway. I have been around the sites tonight, found some (I thought) unnecessary speculations on Forum.
I'm with the 'who cares' faction re CO.
Still excited about seeing everyone on Weds. Checked the train times should be a breeze with the tubes working this time, no long taxi rides required. Fingers crossed.
Nightlee night

Good morning Beach Bunnies - rise and shine. It looks a bit dark and chilly out there, so I feel lots of porridge au rum and fruit will be required - a good way to warm your innards and set you up for the day! The BHB is currently lighting the ovens and getting things ready, so I'll busy myself with the coffee (Geri - where's that pot???). Only one more sleep until the Gerifest so great excitement anticipated in the Bistro this morning!

Morning all -

Porridge sounds good for such a cold morning - oh thank you BHB, that's a luvely big bowl.

So Geri-fest tomorrow - have a wonderful time Loppies.

Now that means, if Geri-fest is tomorrow, crikey! it's only 8 sleeps till my first visit. I've started suffering from the now standard, 'will it be Lewis? panic'.
Was talking to Mum-in-Law last night. She says if she has to watch she'll be gutted! I told you my mum-in-laws lovely!

Fi - seconded - Carys is most deffinately a star!!!

Good morning to all beach bunnies. Been catching up on my emails. We were so frantic here last night I took myself off to bed at 9 to try and calm the dog down. Thought that he is used to sleeping and being relaxed in there, and it mostly worked. A couple of really close loud bangs set him off again, but manageable.

Getting well excited about meeting lots of you tomorrow. OOOOHHH cant wait. And then only 9 sleeps until CiN, then only 2 sleeps until the perfomance and signing. And then only 5 sleeps until I am off on holiday to recover from all the excitement. PHEW.

Glad to see the BeachCafe/Bistro is open on time, and all nice and organised inside. At the end of the week I will be conducting a customer satisfaction survey to make sure you are all happy with the holiday relief Manager. I will just sit and chat - nice to have a chance to relax in the morning. Shove up Jane. Thanks BHB, I'll have some Demerara sugar on my porridge thanks. And a nice unleaded espresso. Black

Good morning all. Cold, cold, cold this morning. Please BHB, may I have a bacon sarnie again, a big mug of Geri's coffee, and a little hand rub from yourself. I forgot my mittens this morning and my hand are frozen. Oh, that's lovely. Feelings are coming back into my fingers again.( Flexes her fingers) Maybe you would like a little rub too? OOOOOuuuuccchhhhh! No reason to deck me, Shirley, I was just going to....well...do something nice!! His ankle could still do with some gentle massage. What did you think I was going to do? Have you had too much of that scrambled eggs a la vino again? Your imagination is working overtime! Thank you,BHB, I'm fine. Yes, I agree,- she is a little overprotective. Ah,- she has told you it's best she does the massages herself? You shouldn't trust people with pink hair. Now, people with grey hair, on the other hand.......

Morning Everyone!!

LEE ALERT LEE ALERT!! Just read in the Radio Times that Lee will be opening CIN at 7.00 with a Joseph sing-a-long as we all know BUT HE WILL BE BACK at midnight ish to perform 'a pop classic' !!! Set those videos!!! The slightly bad news is that Denise Van Outen is also set to perform around then too!!

Terry Wogan just said on radio 2 that LEE MEAD will lead a country wide sing-a-long on CiN night. He called him the big star !!!

Morning
Just watched sky showbiz - no GO today so will have to look again on wednesday(They did say yesterday it
would be this week - but not which day)
Found this - click left arrow to see more pics
http://www.bebo.com/PhotoAlbumBig.jsp?MemberId=4170944387&PhotoId=4904078789&PhotoAlbumId=4749003960

Also press on right hand side view all albums

You didn’t say Ben had popped in to the bistro - for a quick bite this morning! http://www.bebo.com/PhotoAlbumBig.jsp?MemberId=4170944387&PhotoId=4698187560&PhotoAlbumId=4558053378
Right must do the H word now!!

Thanks for the alert Ali B - I have just looked through every TV listings mag in the shop (earning me a very funny look from the newsagent) but couldn't find any pictures better than the two little ones in Radio Times! Shucks!

Hi all, back on the computer again so thought I'd check in.Have done a quick catch up but sure I've missed lots, but definately latched on to the important things!! Think I might find myself in Oxford St. on the 19th.... I wonder why!! He's responsible for a lot is the GO as I have never even contemplated going to one of these things before, hope I manage it though will depend on sloppy as she is still suffering.

Shirley I do hope your dogs are ok, we used to have a beagle who spent all Nov 5th with his head stuck under anybody's arm poor thing. Mind this is the dog who used to sleep in the kitchen and every night would open the fridge door. He never seemed to touch the food and we couldn't understand why he did it until my sloppy had the bright idea of giving him a night light... problem solved he didn't like the dark!! Heart of a lion our dog had.

Have a fantastic day at the Gerifest tomorrow those going and enjoy ..what was you were all doing?

Ali B your Lee Alert may not be good news at all. I'm beginning to think DVO very bad news. Also if he has to go back to the BBC for midnightish will he come out after the show to sign autographs or will he have to leg it straight back?

Alison - I know - when I saw her name I thought OH NO!!!

I am sure he will come out afterwards as he is only there for about ten minutes. He is not due back on CIN until between 12.00 - 12.30 so if the show finishes about 10.30ish (it starts at 8.00) he can get to the TV centre for about 11.00ish!! Thats why he is on so late!!

The fact that Lee is performing and signing at the HMV store Oxford Street 19/11 is now up on the HMV website http://www.hmv.co.uk/hmvweb/navigate.do?pPageID=1080

It's not yet showing anything about 'wristbands' for the Lee signing (See Mcfly on the link above also, 6/11 and the David Tennant one today - now removed - which do have wristbands) so maybe they are not expecting too many people. Not sure whether that's good or bad, in that if you get a wristband you can go away and do some shopping/coffee/chatting with other loppies until 1.00pm. Things may change anyway.

I think Lee will do the after show 16/11 if at all possible - he seems to often appear dressed to go elsewhere, and as long as the show starts on time and finishes about 10.00 and he finishes the after show bit by 10.45/11.00.......if he can open CIN at 7.00 and still get to the theatre for 8.00 he should have no problem getting back to BBC by midnight.

Lets hope so. Mind you I'm feeling exhausted for him just thinking about it.

SMALL LEE ALERT!! Lee is in Heat magazine again this week!! Under the my favourite Telly section he says his favourite show is Prison Break, favourite pin up is Kelly Brook and favourite snack is beans on toast!! I would have mentioned this earlier but I skimmed the mag in my lunch break and completely missed it!!

Thanks for all the links ladies. Quite funny - HMV say that Lee Mead will be live and signing her new record. I dont think so......

LADIES!!!!!!!!!!
http://pub29.bravenet.com/forum/2462310622/show/725126

I have just come from Donna's site and saw that too, Maggie.
Shirley,- I think you'll get a lot of e-mails coming from them now.
Re Donna's site,- there is a discussion going on about the voting for The sexiest man in the world and The sexiest man on TV. I must admit I have the same misgivings as are aired there. I have faithfully voted twice every day (the site won't let me get away with more) and every time Jonathan Ansell has jumped another 500 votes. So what is really going on there? It must be block voting going on. And who are doing this poll anyway? I know we think Lee is the sexiest, best, loveliest, most magnificent man in the world (not known for exaggerations, me), but is this just another c**p diploma he will hang in his toilet? Discuss !

Evening all -thanks for the links and the Lee alerts - there was a black and white photo in one of those albums of him looking very brooding that I haven't seen before - lovely!!!

Pauline2 - loved the story of your dog opening the fridge door - aw bless!!!

Well, it's lovely and peaceful here tonight after the battlefield of the last few days - lets hope it stays that way - hope it's nice and peaceful where you all are too and that everybody's pets have returned to normal from being gibbering wrecks!1

I thought so too Karen, and was just running out of the door to aqua, and guess what... BBBLLLEEEEPPPING fireworks going off all over the place, Dog under table and quivering. Me back in ready to administer as much comfort as I can. Certainly cant leave them. Enough already. I have had it with fireworks. Now thinking I should maybe leave London tomorrow in time to get home by 6ish. Oh pooey.

Pauline2 - What a lovely dog. If mine ever figure out how to open the fridge it will be empty. Of everything. Things they dont like will be distributed all across the floor. But they will have tried it all. Suspect they would even manage to form a doggy pyramid to get to the higher shelves!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Evening Loppies (well perhaps we should be Lovely Open People Perfect in Every Situation!). Just home, heard one or two fireworks, but that's all (don't they realise Firework night was last night???). Just for a change - off to rehearsal (gulp) opening night a week today!! Catch up later - be good whilst I am gone!

Loved you're dog story, Pauline2 - what a hero he is!

And someone has decided it's still Guy Fawkes night here, as well!

Good luck with your rehersal Carol - getting close now!

Off out now - got to make like a good little secretary and take some minutes.

Oh Shirley, poor you and poor dogs (although I did laugh at the doggy pyramid!!) - and what a shame if you have to leave the Gerifest early- hope people finally realise, like Carol said, that it was yesterday and give up by tomorrow but you can't be sure can you!!!

Had a phonecall 15 minutes ago from a very exited Geri, in her seat and ready to be seduced. Curtain should be going up NOOOOOW !!!!!!

Scott dear,- your computer clock is off by 6 minutes!

I hope Geri took a big bucket with her. She will be needing it by now. I do just rememering. Be interesting to hear what the understudy for Dean is like too. I find it hard to imagine anyone else as Pharaoh.

I have some giftwrapping to do. Will be distributing some little things tomorrow at The Fest. Anybody want some fish ???

Karen I totally agree with you about the new black and white photo. I like it a lot. It is a very dark Lee. What is he thinking about?

Ooh Anne - good question - just went and had another look and stared into those eyes trying to imagine what he was thinking but had to tear myself away as I was coming over all peculiar!!!!

I thought I'd take the dog out for a walk, got about 50yds, big bang so we had to come back.
One more sleep!
Got to polish my shoes for tomorrow!!

Hi all. back from London where I was able to meet with geri after my conference. great to meet up with her and thank you Geri for agreeing to meet before your trip to a certain show - you were very calm, or appeared it, so hope you have a brilliant time at the joseph - and remember to give lee a kiss from me too! BTW Geri I found my way back Ok and only stood on southbound line waiting for northbound tube for 3 minutes!

Carol - i have sussed out why you are a lush loppy. have decided that everyone in London is lush. Go to a serious conference (allegedly) and afternoon tea (listed on programme as such) is actually champagne and canapes. Then on train home woman beside me takes out bottle of bubbly and offers me some. Coming from the provinces not used to this lifestyle - mind you dont get me started on how come a government financed organisation can afford champagne instead of afternoon tea when front line services starved of cash - reminds me of a certain Marie Antoinette.

Have a brill time at gerifest tomorrow all who are going. Off for a walk with ploppy to clear my head - unlike you Carol not used to this lush lifestyle - mind you I am sure i could with practice.

Eva.
Have you got dual nationality is that why you can vote twice?
Ooooooooh we just scored come on you blues

Fi-Glad you met up with Geri.
I'm off for early night, early start tomorrow! Got some people to meet, some say they are slightly bonkers, but we know them as Loppies. Oh, also might be going to a show- yes I've got the ticket out of the 'safe' place. I'm not that bonkers. Phone and camera on charge. Shoes all shiny. I'm getting really excited now.
Nightlee night.

All of you lucky loppies –hope you have a great day on Wednesday with Geri
GO GO Loppies

Hey Fi that sounds like my kinda meeting, you need more practise girl, perhaps training from Carol. Great that you managed to meet up with Geri!

Talking of which, I suspect Geri is on cloud nine by now!

Have a wonderful day tomorrow all you Geri-festers!

Fi - well done on another Loppyfest - can't believe Geri was so calm, I was a complete bag of nerves pre show. Wonder how she's feeling now!!

Jo4 - do try to get some sleep tonight. Have a fab time tomorrow.

And all other slightly bonkers people at the Gerifest, have a fab time too!! Can't wait to hear all your reports.

Hiya all.
Just caught up after 2 busy days at work. Now getting all psyched up for tomorrow. Not sure what time to arrive but ploppy should be home by the afternoon so hope to make it in early. Don't want to miss you Shirley! Loved the doggy pyramid. You should enter them in some sort of talent show. Can't you lend them some earplugs? Actually 'lend' is the wrong word - you really wouldn't like to pass them on to anyone else would you?
Got Classical Star on in the background - what talent.
Eva, I agree about all these stupid awards but somehow we still want him to win them don't we?

Just checking links.
I don't think much of HMVs information, not only have they changed Lee into a "her" but got the name of album wrong.
"LM will be live and signing copies of her new album "Any Dream Will Do"
At least they got the "live" correct!

Lovely story about your dog Pauline2.

Geri probably outside getting Lee's smile and signature right now
(Tuesday's performance starts earlier)

Fi how great that you met up with Geri, bet she is in the clouds by now. I expect she will have a bit to tell us about it tomorrow.

I have my camera and phone on charge, my lucky pen in my bag - so ready for all eventualities - but I can't claim to have shiny shoes - very impressed JO4. And not a clue what I will be wearing either. What was it I was saying about being ready?????????????

Sadly still lots of fireworks here this evening. But not so close to home so we are just about coping.

Take care all and good night. Doubt if I will make it onto the beach in the mornng. Places to go, people to see. Will report back as soon as I can.

Maggie,- I can vote twice because I'm crafty. First I use the link on Donna's site. Then I go to Internet explorer, write in http://polls.theinternetforum.co.uk/poll2/index.php?dispid=69 which leads to another site where you click on Lee Mead Fans, which takes you to the Lee Mead live forum, scroll down to 26 Oct. @03.09 The Sexiest Man poll, click on the link and it takes you to the site where you can vote again. Don't ask me how I found out, because I can't remember.
I just got a text from Geri. She writes :" He spoke to me. And is just too gorgeous for words. Will tell you all tomorrow." I think we can call that a success then.
I'll get myself to bed early tonight to be all bright for tomorrow.
Sleep tight, have wonderful dreams and wake up happy.

Eek - he spoke to her????? I bet she's not so calm now!!!!!! Can't wait to hear all about it!!

I second Karen's EEK! but slightly louder! Oh wonderful!

Geri you lucky luck Loppy!

I'm off to bed

Sweet meads all -especially you geri-festers

Oh well done Geri! We shall doubtless have a full blow by blow account tomorrow!! Well despite the excitement of tomorrow I will still be giving you your early morning call - I am aware that lots of Loppies can't make it, so the Bistro will be open again early tomorrow morning to provide suitable refreshment for those tripping up to London (i.e. of the sort Fi came across) and also for those who might be feeling left behind! See, it's not my fault I'm Queen Lush - it's where I work that is the problem!!! Fi I am available for intensive training should you feel you need some!
Good night all and Sweet Meads....bet Geri has difficulty sleeping tonight!

So pleased Geri has had a great time and hope everyone meeting/going tomorrow has a brilliant day & night. Enjoy yourselves.

Shirley hope everything is calm in your house and there are no fireworks tomorrow. We had a few tonight but not many although there is another organised bonfire party by us next Saturday.. We were worried about the rabbit being outside but he seems oblivious but he is a bit mad anyway. Pauline2 loved your fridge story- bless him.

I went to bed last night trying to work out how i could come to London on 19/11 or come to see the show again and felt quite frustrated by it all. At work today i forgot my password (1st time ever!) and had to wait for an hour so sat there daydreaming about the GO and watching everyone rushing around and thought there must be more to life so how can i get more tickets but nothing booked yet! I must work on it.

Off to bed now. Take care everyone.

Good morning all. For some reason or another I could not sleep to save my life. I am up, showered, new lenses in, dogs fed and watered, emails caught up on. Letter written to the BBC asking for late night seats on CiN night - hey you dont ask you dont get - with 11 of us staying over in London after Joseph we could do that at a doddle. Anyway worth a first class stamp.

Oh wow and the GO spoke to Geri, she must be one happy lady, Ecstatic is the word Eva used. Sounds about right to me. Cant wait to hear all the details - in about 6 hours. EEEEEKKKKK. Not only that but close enough to the GO to hope that we might see him. Oh calm, calm, not sure I can cope with the excitement.

I think I need some of Carol's truly incoholic porrige to help me cope - whats this?????????? Doors locked - BeachCafe/Bstro in darkness - what do you mean I am too early????? Oh yes, I suppose I am just a little. Think I will just go have a gentle walk along the beach with the BHB to calm me down. He is such a poppet. Says he might just be able to communicat with the GO and let him know that lots of his beach bunnies are in town today. I wish!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Debbie no way am I leaving before you get there. Realised in the middle of the night that of course I dont have to get back for the dogs. I have them booked into kennels for tonight. Shows you what a state my brain is in - for some strange reason the prospect of seeing Lee does that to me. Does anyone else here understand that?????????????? Dont all shout at once.

Morning my Little Beach Bunnies - rise and shine. Looks a bit gloomy outside, but nice and bright inside the Bistro. Was chatting to the BHB as we whisked up the eggs prior to adding just that right amount of vino (BHB does this to perfection now) and he was telling me that he had a strange experience yesterday evening. Apparently as he was leaving his evening job he was accosted by a strange woman who was trying to talk to him about Richard III. I told him this wasn't strange at all and we have just had a nice long chat about how RIII was much maligned in history and was really a very good King - he is now a convert to the RIII cause. Right new dish on the menu this morning (especially with Fi in mind) - kedgeree au champagne. Ladies I can recommend this one.......................

Good Morning Loppies,

My! Shirley and Carol are looking glamourous this morning - would you be going out somewhere today ladies?

Have a great time ladies - raise a glass to all the Left Out Loppies!
Postive vibes for seeing the GO!

OK let's try the eggs then - (I really don't fancy kedgree), while I try and balance the Dicky III fanclub, with a completely unbiased view from the other side of the Battle of Bosworth. So BHB let me tell you about Henry VII....

Morning all. First I thought I'd stumbled into a history lecture by mistake. Tricky Dicky, Hooray Henrys being bandied about. No wonder BHB looks a little bewildered. Hello sweetheart, may I have a Coffee Doctor, please ? ( Baby, it's cold outside) and a nice walnut roll. I need a bit of sustenance. I have a meeting later today in the big, bad city with some strangers. Well, some of them are, and my mother always told me not to talk to strangers,- or was that strange men? Can't remember, it was so long ago. I'll talk to any man, me.
Can't sit here long today. I have a long way to go, and I think I'll have a wash today since I'll be in company. Us Vikings wash every Christmas whether we need it or not, but I'll make an exeption today.
Do you want to hear about the Vikings, you say BHB? Come here and sit beside me in this corner. Who is that hiding there. ? It's Carol. She told me she was the shy and retiring type. I didn't believe her. Nothing shy about that snoring. Too much scrambled eggs a la champagne, do you think, my boy? She did a lot of tasting when you were making it ? Shy indeed, the blond bombshell!!!!

Morning all - just about able to stagger up to work after all the hard work yesterday - ie drinking champagne and meeting loppies (well one).

Well done geri. Are you back on planet earth yet? I should have stayed over and stowed away to show with you esp as ploppy saying we cant stay to after show bit. Looking forward to hearing your review.

Carol may need to take you up on your offer of training but it will need to be intensive. i am back in london for another conference on 26th - wonder if TUC's idea of afternoon tea is same as that of govt agencies?

Have a brill geri fest today. Wondered if poss for someone to take photo and email to those who want to feel part of the gang. I am enjoying putting faces to those loppies I have met. Never mind noises of firework - think of the noise of a gang of loppies getting tog today - esp when they hear Geri's tales of last night.

Have a good day all

Morning all - quick pop in - have a brilliant day gerifesters.

Fi - what a great idea about emailing photos to us!!

...snoring!! What do you mean snoring!!! I never snore!!!! I was just resting my eyes quietly in the corner to psych myself up for meeting people later in the day. I am sure lots of piccies will be taken (although not by me I have to say.....waiting for Santa to bring me digital camera....Ploppy did offer his, but I thought I'd better decline!). Now Jane what is this about that Welsh traitor Henry VII??? Karen - you will have to sort her out at the next Northernfest!! Better get on with some wxxk as I am only here for half a day - did I mention I was meeting up with some people today? Teeth polished, hair brushed, nails cleaned.....will I pass muster?? Full reports later oh, and Fi intensive training available any time!!

Morning Everyone!!

Sorry to be thick - I know lots of you are meeting up today - is everyone going to see Joseph tonight or just meeting up?? Have a lovely time and lots of photos and reports for us poor souls left behind!!

I have a bone to pick with you Shirley and Carol. Do you mean to tell me the cafe/bistro doesn't exist? One of you says it's shut, the other says eggs are being whisked 3mins later. I am horrified that I have been dragged into such lies. Horrified and saddened.

Never mind all that, dressing gown is still on, pink slipper socks on feet and am sitting here watching The Wright Stuff. Ploppy offered to take dollop to school as long as I did the pack lunches last night (there's always a price to pay) so I had a lie-in. Did I sleep longer? Course not. Trying to put aside all mental,images of each loppy I'll meet today so that I arrive with an open mind. I don't know about you lot but I have a picture of each one of you, whether you're going today or not and I'm sure I'm completely wrong! I actually had a dream about us meeting the night before! Can't remember any of it now but any dream will do!!

Better get ready to walk Madge then go pamper myself before I look at the train timetable.

Geri, where are you?

One jealous loppy signing in! I wish I cold join all you Gerifesters today. Still, at least it's only 9 days until CiN so I can console myself with that thought.
I've been surrounded by sickly scollops: youngest had a rash on his face - non-specific virus (doctor speak for "I don't know what it is"), middle one has "man" flu and is residing on sofa feeling very sorry for himself, and eldest was injured playing rugby at school and tried to get himself sent home yesterday but this evil mother told him he was just winded and could jolly well stay for the rest of the afternoon!! (the school agreed with me)
Why couldn't the HMV signing be on 17th November when loads of us will be in London anyway? oh well c'est la vie!
GERIFESTERS have a fantabulous day/night and we want details, pics (incriminating or otherwise) in fact the more incriminating the better?

Debbie - of course the Bistro exists ... Shirley was so la la about the meeting today etc. that she took a wrong turning, ending up on the wrong beach and grabbing some poor unsuspecting chap who was walking his dog peacefully along the shore in the mistaken thought that it was the BHB (I think it was the biege woolly cap pulled down over his hair that lead to this error). Meanwhile as previously advised BHB and I were busy in the kitchen preparing breakfasts. Shirley eventually found her way to us and suitably refreshed should be on her way to London! The poor unfortunate she grabbed hold off refused all offers of a calming coffee (which was a shame as the alcohol might have soothed his nerves) and ran off down the beach screaming something inaudible, but I did catch the words "pink hair".
AliB - it is a mixture of meeting up, some going to see the show, some thinking about applying for returns, but very much playing the day by ear! Debbie did you get the photo I sent you the other day with some of the suspects in it???

OOh! Just going to check my e-mails Carol.
Not doing very well here, dressing gown still on. Someone tell me to get a loife!

Carol - thanks for that. Have a fantastic time!! Looking forward to hearing all about it tomorrow!

No Carol. I got one from Shirley showing the pub we're meeting in. Is that it? There was a couple of women crouched down holding their bellies, very red in the face, stockings round their ankles, clutching what looked like well worn photos of someone, appearing to be sick. That you?

...hm did a round robin with everyone's mobile nos on it and a piccie from when some of us met in September....perhaps I have your email address wrong??? Obviously you don't want to put it on here, so can you email stageloppies and get gillian to send it to my office email (I've here for another hour)....

http://www.discdrive.org.uk/bonus-video/
Lee was on Blue Peter last night, I missed it but here is the link, it hasn't been updated yet but keep checking back!

Carol you should have my email too so PLEASE send it this way!

Ali (now I have a problem as several Ali and Alisons.....) do you want the one from September or wait for some from today????

Ali (now I have a problem as several Ali and Alisons.....not sure which one of the address I have is you....) do you want the one from September or wait for some from today????

...no you are not seeing double .. I got the message saying "please try later" so I did and it appeared twice!

Sorry forgot to say - Scott, sorry you can't join us, but apart from raising the odd glass or six to absent Loppies, we will of course raise one to you!

Carol - Seeing as you're obviously over excited about this afternoon, I shall ignore your description of my mate Harry!

Great idea about the photos, Fi! Can't wait to see 'em! You glamourous, sophisticated bunch of Loppies!

Carol, have sent you an e-mail.
Jane E - we really need you there to massage our egos!

Debbie - I am just off and email hasn't arrived yet. I have sent to Auds and Gillian and asked them to forward to you. See you later. Full report to everyone else sometime this evening!

Carol you will read this later I assume, sent you an email as I guessed there would be some confusion with so many of us Ali's and Alison's! Got the attachment but unable to see pics, it says "unable to download graphics converter" and I just get a blank wordpad page with the cursor flashing in the top left corner, any suggestions anyone?

Is it possible for the pics to be emailed without the word doc? Sorry if I'm being a bit thick!!

Isn't it weird that there are so many of us Alisons on this site!! Its not really a very popular name now although I guess it must have been in the sixties and seventies!! I was apparently named after the woman in the next bed to my Mum in the hospital ward when I was born. I was going to be Amanda Jane!! (would have been alot easier if I had been!!). If anyone else has the middle name Clare that really would be spooky!!!

Quick any one on that wants a ticket or two for tonight
Just phone see and they hhhhhhhhhhhhhhave
8 returns
2 In H 2 In J 2+2 In L 2 In M
Just phone them they will go quick the man said!!!!!!!!!!

IN THE STALLS

LEE ALERT!! The short clip of Lee on Blue Peter yesterday is now on youtube!! I accessed it through the 'Lee is Joseph' website. The clip is very short but very very sweet!! He is very cute in it and check out the fluffy wild curls!!!

AliB I was going to be Nicola but my dad didn't like a relative named that so I was Alison instead!

Ali
Ploppy is going to send you an e-mail -telling you how to sent pics (hope it is of help to you )

Has any one got the loppies phone numbers to tell them about the tickets?
I would hate for them to miss them - as they are good seats!

Maggie, I think those that are up at the Gerifest this afternoon have gone to the matinee and those that are arriving this evening, like me, won't have time to both chat to the others and see the show, should there be any tickets left, but thanks for thinking of us.

Thanks for that Gillian - I can rest now having done my Loppie duty !!
Have a great time all

Got the email from your ploppy Maggie, it is receiving the attachment that I have a problem with so I've emailed him back to explain, hope he can help? thanks for that!

I've just got a little pressy through the post!

Thank you Carys you fantastic, wonderful, marvellous woman -you!

Shame that I'm of out tonight and won't be able to enjoy it for a while. We're off to see Stardust again.

Yes Maggie, despite Ploppy's re-action - in fact it was his idea!

Catch you all later

Well, it's been very quiet on here this afternoon - has everybody gone somewhere?????? Jealous? Me?? Of course I am!!! Hope they're having a fantastic time though.

Ali - hope you got your techno problem sorted - I hate it when that happens - sometimes people email me attachments and although I can open them it's all gobbledegook, like some kind of foreign language and they just say oh you need to convert the file!!!! Eh????? No idea what they're talking about!!

Jane E - so you like Stardust then??

Fairly quiet on blog today - obviously all the chatterboxes elsewhere - cant think where.

Ali - if you do get attachment open can you forward to me too as loving putting faces to names. Hope someone does take photos today and forward to us. Like carol i dont have camera so didnt get photo of geri but at least I can see her in my mind.

Debbie - I am never one to criticise (hmm says scollop) but... are you sure dressing gown and pink slipper socks quite the right attire for outing to london. Mind you after a few cups of "afternoon tea" London style dont suppose anyone will notice. Will make you easy to identify in photo anyway.

And by the way Geri - what do you think you're doing, enjoying yourself whilst us poor left out loppies are waiting for your review and to hear about HIM speaking to you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

ALi
Ploppy has opened the attachment (just seen the pic of more loppies)
He has sent it to you via e-mail
Right off to work now - JaneE hold ploppy down this time!

Here's the link to the Blue Peter clip on You Tube. Short but sweet and gorgeous as ever!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PPdWw7uwZYs

After a lovely peaceful night last night when I thought the fireworks were over, the moron that lives at the bottom of our garden (ok not literally, I know I'm near to Cottingley but I don't have fairies living at the bottom of my garden - the next house down) is letting off a whole load of fireworks - think I'll go round and tell him he's forgotten to change the date on his calendar!!!

They made me jump so much I just spilt some wine!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Just got back from music rehearsal and my ploppy said "you've got emails from two men" One was from scollops squash coach and the other was from Maggie's ploppy - give him a big hug from me Maggie, he solved my technical problem and returned Carol's pics to me in a format I can see! Now I too can put faces to names, Fi I'll send them on to you.
Gerifesters I doubt we'll get much sense out of you tonight so looking forward to tomorrow's posts!!
Ploppy has just presented me with a VERY large glass of wine so you won't be getting much sense out of me either soon, night all!

All quiet in Loppyland - I wonder where everyone is?

Jackie - thank's for that small, buy perfectly formed link!

Maggie -Ploppy behaved tonight! I escaped without any major embarisment this time!

Probably time to go to bed - can't wait for all those reports to come in!

sweet meads!

Ooh Ali - can you send them to me too please?

All right you Loppies, sit to attention !!!!!! I had a close encounter with Himself today !!!! Yes, it's true and yes I did. I was making my way from Charing Cross to the pub behind the Adelphi when I saw this young man going into a newsagent. I thought:"That is Lee." And it was. So i just waited outside, not loitering, not lurking, just waiting! When he came towards me I said"Lee ?"
He stoppd, looked at me and said "Yes?"
Me:" I hope you don't mind me talking to you."
He smiled and said :"Of course I don't mind, but I am a bit pressed for time".
Me:" I won't keep you, but I am a Loppy!"
His face lit up and he said:" Are you really? How wonderful! "
Me:" Some of us are meeting up today in the pub around the corner."
Lee:" Oh, are you coming to the show?"
Me:" No, not tonight, but quiet a few of us are coming to the CiN night's show".
Lee:" I hope you know how much your support means to me, the Loppies and the Lovelees".
Me:" Mumble mumble, yes. How is your ankle?"
Lee:" It's much better thank you. But I have a very busy few weeks ahead of me".
Me:" I know. I read your diary".
Lee, laughing :"You do?"
Me:"Of course, every day"
Lee smiling:" I have to go" Takes my right arm and gives it a little squeeze, says:" Give my love to the other Loppies, and have a lovely day together".
Then he disappeared up the road.
I swear this is the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. The rest of the day was also lovely, but I'll tell you all about that tomorrow. I just had to share this with you, and I know that Carol has something to share too.
And Scott dear,- he bought The Stage in the newsagents.
I'll just sit here and grin and remember. He is sooooooo beautiful, and those eyes !!!!!!!

Eva! SQUEAAALLL!!!

You're not joking??!!! Oh wow!

And I was only popping back on to grovel to Ali to send me the photo.

Now I've got palpitations!!!

Alli - oh yeah, can I grovel for a photo please. Sorry, got side tracked by Eva!

EVA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!OMG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Well done you - big up the loppies!!!!!!

I had said to Jane when we last met for lunch that, if I had been able to do the after show show I was going to tell him that I was a loppy, but I wasn't sure I'd have had the nerve, so good for you.

Come on Carol - what's your news??????

Couldn't resist one last look before bed, glad I did - Eva you lucky, lucky lady, how did you manage to even breath let alone speak to him? Can't wait for Carol's post now! Here's hoping one of us (me,me!) sees him on the 16th too?

Hello Left Out Loppies - had a fantastic day (sorry to rub it in, but then a lot of you are going to CiN and I'm not!). Arrived at the pub slightly later than intended; now I am not used to going into such dens of iniquity but I went in through the front door, passing a table with four ladies who I thought could very well be Loppies, except I had been told they would be inside upstairs. So upstairs inside I went - nada. Came out and just got my mobile out to ring around when a small perfectly formed Irish person said "are you looking for us"....and of course it was Geri (who gave me a Richard III fridge magnet - which is now adorning my fridge) and Eva and Jo4 and Maeve! Next to arrive was Shirley so at that point we decamped inside and were joined not a lot later by Sonja. We managed to stop talking long enough to order some food (and drinks) and then Aunty Eva gave me a HUGE toblerone as a pressie! Jo had a ticket for the matinee so Shirley and I thought we would see if there were any left for the performance. We went to the Box Office to find that we could have three together in row J of the Dress Circle, so whilst Shirley did the deal I rang back to the others to see who would like the third ticket. This was snatched up by Geri (despite having seen it last night!), and so somewhat sadly we left Sonja and Eva to have a long conversation - Maeve had somewhere else to go for the afternoon - (don't know what they talked about) whilst we went and got into our seats. Well, I am pleased to say that despite some very discreet strapping you would not have known the GO had a problem with his ankle (although the brothers were all very careful with him in the well scene and he didn't dance as much as normal). Narrator for the afternoon was Fiona, who I liked very much. The GO? Pure unadulterated perfection!! Still looking as if he is loving every minute he's on stage, and vocal faultless. There were a couple of pieces of business I don't recall from when I saw it before, but it again proved to be total entertainment. Did Shirley, Geri, Jo and I all have big grins on our faces? You bet!! Came the end of the show we went outside for the signing and found Sonja and Eva, Maeve and Debbie (although without the pink fluffy slippers and dressing gown I was hard put to recognise her). Anway by judicious juggling Shirley, Geri and I managed to be in the front behind three little girls (one of whom was 8 today and had comet to see the show for a birthday treat). Lee duly appeared and as he was signing pictures, young Shirley said to him "Lee, this is Carol - she is the first Loppy, the original". Lee looked at me (he did! he did!!) and said "Is that true?" Nod from Carol "that's fantastic, well done. The Loppies are such a great support group" and with that he signed my piccie, winked at me (yes just for me, me me!) and continued on his way. Be still my beating heart, my wobbling knees, my shaking hands!!! Signing was a lot shorter than when I was there before and not long after he went back inside and we made our way back to the others. Sonja and Eva sadly had to go back for their train and then the rest of us waited for Auds to arrive before hot footing it to a little Italian restaurant on the fringe of Covent Garden. Was it a fantastic afternoon and evening??? You bet!! Do you think we can kidnap the GO for the Stratfordfest?? If anyone could do it, it would be our Shirley!! So it was close encounter day for the Loppies, who are obviously much loved by the GO!!

Back again! this really is the last time tonight! I really wish I'd been able to go now? Glad you all had such a fantastic day, can't wait to meet a lot of you next week, definitely off to bed now, sweet meads to everyone

Oh Carol, I'm so glad I stayed up to read wait for you're post. So Lee has met the original Loppy - FANTASTIC!!

Shirley we're counting on you - kidnap the GO for Stratfordfest - excellent idea!

Right I'm really going now!

Night Night

Probably too excited to sleep, but going to bed now! Sweet Meads all - Beach Bunnies up nice and early tomorrow please!!

WOW Carol - thank you for sharing that - what a fantastic day you've all had.

I think all us left out loppies are so jealous but so happy for you all - especially Geri, who got to see the show again whilst over here - brilliant!!

And Carol - if only you or Shirley could kidnap the GO for the Stratfordfest the rest of us would be forever in your debt!!!!!

Oh you lucky ladies! Havent been around for a bit as things have been a bit manic, but I`m so glad you had a fab day & close encounters of the Meady kind.
Eva, The Stage??? Don`t suppose he`s jobhunting do you??!
Am now on a serious countdown to CiN - 9 shleepsh!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Excited? Not at all.

Oh wow- what wonderful stories Eva and Carol.

Well done Eva for talking to the GO like you did. I am sure i could not have done that and would then have regretted it for evermore so well done you.

Shirley well done for talking to him and getting a wink for Carol- well deserved Carol. I am so glad you all had such a great day/evening.I would love to see some piccies too if possible to put names to faces. Was anyone like you thought Debbie?

I am very proud to be a Loppy and it is wonderful to hear Lee talk of us like he does.

Good night all and enjoy the rest of your break Geri.

Evening all.

Well, I have to admit I was a little doubtful about going today for 2 reasons. Firstly ploppy was a bit late coming home so I wasn't sure if he'd be able to collect dollops from school and 2ndly I was wondering if I could justify going this week and next. Anyway in the end I just thought "s*d it, I've made a promise to go so I'm off" and of course I'm glad I did.

Got the bus to Westminster from Victoria and then walked to the pub, texting Eva and Sonja on the way. I got a lovely friendly voice calling me (Sonja) to say they were still in the pub whilst the others were in the show. I knew they were upstairs so went up and saw them straight away. Had a good laugh and then met the others after the show. Very impressed with Eva's news. Oh to be in the right place at the right time!

Anyway, after meeting the others (and seeing Lee doing his signings - lovely!) we all had a very nice meal in the restaurant where the service was very good. There was some chat about Lee, a few laughs, talk about work etc, more chats about Lee etc etc. All quite civilised actually. I'm glad I chose not to wear the dressing gown and slippers. It was a close thing though.

Tracy, I can't say ANYONE looked like I thought but then not many people do have rabbit ears and permanent grins in real life (apart from Joan Rivers - the grin). I did receive a picture of some of the others in advance. Everyone was lovely and it was a pleasure to meet you all!

Not sure if I can make the CINfest yet. Will have to see how it goes. Night all.

Just popped in for a late night catch up and sooo glad I did. Eva, Carol in the words of JB WOW WOW WOW. How lucky are you!! I'm so pleased for you and not more than you deserve. I think if I'm ever lucky enough to get thet close to the GO I would need Eva or Shirley to speak for me! Do you let yourselves out?? Actually maybe I should rephrase that!!!!!!!!!!!

Just checking in to say what a great time I had today.
I didn't have any exciting encounters with Lee or see the show but met lots of lovely Loppies.
Like Debbie, no one was how I had imagined them, all far nicer!
I shall read the blog with a different understanding now.
Thanks Geri, Eva, Jo4,Carol, Shirley, Sonja, Gillian, Debbie and Auds for making it such an enjoyable day.

Morning Beach Bunnies - an extra early rise and shine this morning - told you I wouldn't be able to sleep! Anway the Bistro currently in darkness but the BHB is waiting patiently outside wearing a very fetching blue and grey scarf, so I think we will get started on the breakfasts extra early. Today in addition to the usual fare we have a special fruit juice pick me up (that's pick me and Eva up after yesterday). It is an exotic blend of kiwi fruit, pawpaw, melon and vodka - gives you a great kick start to the day. It is also quite easy to prepare and the BHB can rest his ankle whilst chopping and blending the fruit (cos it still has a support on it). No walks on the beach with him until it is completely healed ladies! We are also going to trial some blueberry (steeped in rum) muffins this morning. See you all shortly!
By the way Scott (and Left Out Loppies) - we raised several glasses to you yesterday!

...forgot to say that Shirley has some absolutely stunning photos she took of the GO yesterday afternoon.......doubtless soon be on Donna's site!

Good Morning Loppies!

How lovely reading all the reports from Geri-fest, what a great day you all had!

And Good Morning BHB, what's that? You got accosted by a Viking Woman yesterday? Really? Oh a nice friendly Viking Woman, that's OK then - come and tell me all about it!

So Nicki - if it's 9 sleeps to CinN that means....

OMG only 6 SLEEPS TILL I GO!!!! SQUEAK!! Excitment levels rising!

Best pass the Vodka, Carol!!

Oh I hate it when that happens. I have been typing for half hour and then got the dreaded Microsoft message and it all disappeared. GGGRR. And yes I know all about working in a Word document and then copying it across, but I rarely bother. Am now. But the damned thing has gone so here goes again.

It was a lovely day yesterday. And so nice to meet lots of lovely new Loppies. Eva, Geri, Mabs, Jo4 and Debbie – great to have faces to names at last. And to spend more time with established Loppy friends. Sad that I missed Lee (of course) but thankfully I had already made arrangement for him to sign and write a number on the four photos I need for my latest little scheme.

It was wonderful to hear all about Eva’s lovely close encounter. Star lady. Oh isn’t it wonderful how proud Lee is of his Loppies.

And ask Geri about her close encounter – It could only happen to Geri!!!!!!!

Well, being so close to the Adelphi you have to guess that we went to see if there were any returns, and we were lucky enough to get 3 together so Carol, Geri and I sat in the Dress Circle and had a ball. Lee is very much better. Certainly not hobbling, but he does still have his ankle strapped and there are a few minor changes to accommodate his reduced mobility, but if you did not know about the injury you so would not know there had been a problem. And despite the rumours there was Dean on stage doing his wonderful best as Pharaoh. I so enjoy the interactions beween Lee and Dean, so was pleased not to see Dean’s understudy. The only big difference for me was to see Fiona rather than Preeya as the narrator, and although Fiona also has a lovely voice, I feel that Preeya was the better actor. This time I came over all tearful at the reunion between Joseph and Benjamin – so sweet. AAHHH

Then out to the after show show, and another new Loppy to meet. Debbie had arrived – not a fluffy pink slipper or dressing gown in sight. How are we supposed to recognise each other if we insist in coming in disguise????!!!!!!!!!????????

Geri, Carol and I got a wonderful position and even in the throng I was able to introduce Lee to the first ever Loppy – and ladies this will be a real shock to you – but for the first time ever Carol was speechless. I kid you not. All she managed was a strangulated affirmative type noise, accompanied by a vigorous head nod in answer to his question. Clearly she needed some more alcohol to help her recover so once Auds arrived we headed off for dinner. Sadly Sonja and Eva had to run off for their train – the only downside of the day for me was not having longer to chat with the Scandinavian contingent. At dinner we all had a wonderful time chatting and getting to know each other. Lots of toasts drunk at lunchtime and at dinner to Absent Friends, Lee and Scott. So you were all virtually with us.

Morning all - how are all you Gerifesters this morning - still walking on air?? Sounds like you all had a fantastic time. Looking forward to Geri reporting in.

Busy day so off to do some w**k much as I want to stay in the Bistro with you all.

OMG - STOP PRESS FROM DONNA

LEE IS ON THE STRICTLY RESULT SHOW ON SUNDAY. AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHAAAAAAAAAAA.

Strictly and Lee. Heaven.

DEfinitely feel like a LOL (left out loppy) carol but brilliant to read all your reports and so glad that the day went well in every way. Eva and carol - How fantastic to have such close encounters with lee - and looking forward to hearing about geri's.

Not sure if everyone meeting before CiN - if so i will try and make it for the get together but if people not meeting beforehand then as work hotting up here i wont come to london that afternoon - despite the lure of the afternoon teas!

Must dash to work. have a great day everyone - try and rest your throats - they will have had a lot of use yesterday after all the talking.

Morning all. Finally managed to get into the blog. The computer has been playing up this morning. Had to reboot 3 times before it would let me start doing today's work.
Ah,- BHB, please I need some of that fruit thingy Carol had you prepare.
JaneE,- if you'll let him go I have some things I need to talk to my New Best Friend about.
BHB,- it was lovely to be able to talk to you in peace and quiet yesterday. I really enjoyed our conversation. And I forgot to tell my friends that you asked my name! You don't mind me telling them all this? Good, because good news should be shared. Off you go. sweetheart, and bring me a decaff too please.
Carol,- I forgot to mention that your Ploppy kindly sent £20 to go into the drinks kitty yesterday. THANK YOU CAROL'S PLOPPY!
As the others have said, it was so nice to be able to put faces to names, and now I can't wait till next Friday when even more of us get together and have more time to get to know each other. Will it surprise you that we all seem to be perfectly normal people on the surface? It's only when you start to scratch that surface that the slightly bonkers side comes out, like the slightly glazing of eyes when GO is mentioned, deep, meaningful discussions about anything pertaining to Himself and so on. You are such a lovely bunch of people. I am sorry Sonja and I had to leave before you arrived Auds, but we had a long journey ahead of us.
Debbie,- you must make it next Friday, please.
I will download the pics I took yesterday and e-mail them to you a bit later today. I am in a bit of a daze today. I wonder why?
Scott dear,- we did lift our glasses to you yesterday. So sorry you couldn't make it. You are not afraid of us, are you? Just ask GO. We are such sweet, old ladies !!!!!

Quick good morning. Glad you all had a good time yesterday. Me drowning in w**k all day. Eva in particular aaaaargh. A squeezed arm. Heaven. Let me touch it at CinN?

...in defence of my speechlessness (and remember I have always told you I am a shy shrinking violet - this is proof) - I did speak with Lee to say that the little girl standing in front of us was having her eigth birthday yesterday and he went and said "Happy Birthday" to her. This was of course before Shirley made her introduction!!

Morning Everyone!!

Thanks for the reports - Glad you all had such a good time!! Us left behind Loppies at least had a short clip of Lee on Blue Peter to keep us going!! I really really hope that Lee is going to be on the Strictly results show but if he is why isn't it on his official site?? There is no mention of it on the news there so I hope its true - the Radio Times gets its info quite a long way in advance so it may have changed. I guess we will know on the Saturday show as they usually announce who will be on the Sunday show then!

I've had horrendous probs getting online from home recently and the much more mundane snowed under at work reason...oooh if I could have brought my duvet into work with me today I would be a happy, happy girl...alas, the bus driver said he wouldn't let me on whilst I was still wrapped up in it, so here I am, getting ready for the day ahead and for the first time in what feels like weeks, HELLO EVERYONE!!!!
it was fab seeing everyone yesterday, and so pleased to meet yet more new friends!! Whilst the others were at the show Eva filled me in on all the details of her GO encounter, and Debbie joining us was icing on the cake!! A glimpse of bouncy curls outside the Adelphi and then "Hi's and Bye's" to everyone when Eva and I made our way home. But only eight nights to CiN....will be so good to see everyone again!
But now I'm off to my interview (10 am!!!!) and then off to do some more of the stuff that pays my bills! Hope to speak to you all later!

I was a left at work Loppie-so just caught up on all your news .
How Lucky you all were like Pauline2 has said WOW WOW WOW !!!!
So glad you all had a good day, did you take some photos for us to see you all?
Lee must be on sky showbiz on Friday
I'm off to bed now

Once again, I've been keeping up (just about) with the blog but haven't had much chance to post recently.

So glad Gerifest has lived up to/exceeded expectations for all in attendance! Eva, mighty viking warrior, well done you for flying the Loppy flag and keeping calm in the presence of the GO, especially when he's telling you how much we mean to him. And Carol (or should that be Loppy Zero?), gaining recognition from the BHB for being the original Loppy, aided, of course, by the wonder that is Shirley. Smiled at Lee calling us a "great support group", given the support that we all give each other, not just him.

Wow, if that's the kind of fun you have on a Loppyfest, I can only imagine what you'll all get up to next Friday!!

Better get some of that h-word done - have a wonderful day everyone!

Sorry girls - here is a very shallow question - how did Lee look?!! Not too skinny in the loincloth?? Nice and healthy??

It sounds as if you all had an AMAZING time, I'm sorry I could not be there with you and EVA what an encounter!! And Carol so lovely that you were recognised as starting all the Loppy madness! Re Lee on SCD - in the TV Times it has John Barrowman as guesting on Sunday so there must have been a change of plan, I do sooo hope its Lee....

BTW - the main reason I haven't been able to post for a while is that we came back after the half term break to find that the CO had paid us a visit and hexed the kitchen computer (my lifeblood as it is always switched on to back up Ploppy's work computers). Needless to say, I was not impressed with this unwanted invasion, but Ploppy came to the rescue plugging in his old laptop so I have the basics (ie you guys and email).

You'd have thought the CO would have got the message by now...

Ali B, not a shallow question at all. He looks fantastic. He is still slim, but not the real fragile slim he went. He looks stunning. What more can I say. I will email you a couple of photos from outside - Donna will have them up later, but he has put a lot of the weight he lost back on, and looks a lot better for it.

WE ARE GETTING OUR DATES MUDDLED UP!! In regards to Strictly Come Dancing Results show - Lee is scheduled to appear on Sunday 18 November!! Thats not this Sunday!! It makes sense as its the day before his album is released!!! (its still not on his official site though!!)

Oh I'm so excited for all of you who met yesterday, now I'm wishing the days away til CiNfest! Please be in touch all those going so we can arrange meeting times/places.
Debbie you HAVE to come too, do whatever it takes girl!!

Oh I'm so excited for all of you who met yesterday, now I'm wishing the days away til CiNfest! Please be in touch all those going so we can arrange meeting times/places.
Debbie you HAVE to come too, do whatever it takes girl!!

Extra seats have just been released for CIN night so anyone wanting to join us for it get your skates on and book now!

Yipee - if it is Sunday 18th November I'll be able to see him!! If it was this Sunday I'll be at Technical Rehearsal so would have missed him!!! Did I mention he spoke, smiled and winked at me yesterday.....did I??? Did I?????? Did I????????

Sonja - HOW DID IT GO. Need to know.

Anyway there being absolutely no justice in the world - one of the yesterdays teetotal Loppies here has a stuffing headache and is about to go for a lie down. My beloved Ploppy, who loves a nice red, and good whisky, a pint of ale - you get the picture, says I sound like I have a hangover. Hurumph.

Oh wow! Loads of excitment in Loppyland.

Fiona & Sonja, nice to hear from you. That 'orrible CO has a lot to answer for! We've been having computer problems at w*rk, so explained to my boss about the CO hex. Next thing I heard she's telling her boss that the printer problem she's got has been caused by JD!!

Oh Ali - eek! Spare tickets to CinN!! So tempted to try to get another day of work and head back to London!

Shirley - thanks for the report on the GO's general heathiness!

I'm getting so excited now about Wednesday - was trying to stay calm before because I was convinced we'd end up seeing Lewis!!

Hi all. I was going to say that this week is getting better and better, and in a way it is because I had an e-mail from SCOTT DEAR !!!!! where he tells me that I have won one of the prices for The Stage Competition, namely Strictly Come Dancing Official Annual 2008.
On the other hand this flaming computer gives me so much trouble today that I'm ready to kick it. I sent of after 3 tries the photos that I took from the Gerifest, and the following 4 came back saying the file was too big for the recipient:
Maeve, Donna, Nicki and Jo4. Hopefully the others reach their new homes safely. I posted to all the adresses I've got for the Stageloppies. If any of you haven't received them and want to, please tell me, and I'll contact Gillian for your e-mail adresses.
For the 4 I had returned, I'll do a second try and send two separate e-mails. Hopefully that should do it.
No it won't , because all my e-mails have been returned now, so there is obviously something wrong somewhere in MY system. I'll wait a few hours and try to send them again later. As I said, this flipping machine is really playing up today.
I think I'll do some nice, calming h******k instead to calm my nerves and think of something nice that happened yesterday.

Diary of a Mad Loppy, part 2:

I have deja vu because I wrote my initial review (of the first time I saw the show. Ahem.) but then lost it & didn't have time to re-write it then. Aargh! And so much to tell you I don't have time to read the blog & get all your updates beyond a very quick skim.

So when last we left our heroine she was looking forward to seeing a certain show and meeting with a group of equally (or even worse) mad loppies. I'm sure Eva has told you her tale, and you've probably heard in from most of the others at the fest. But here are my highlights:

Because I was in heels, I decided to take the tube to Leicester Square & walk from there. So I'm going down the escalator and this skinny bloke cuts in front of me. I thought, rude. Then, I know that face... So I stood nose to rear (NOT of the year) all the way down to the platform. Yes, friends, I was nose to derriere with the CO -- and me without an enema bag handy! By the way, he's going pretty grey...Eva gets close encounters with the GO, and I get nose to tush with the CO. Life just isn't fair sometimes!

I arrived early for the show Tuesday evening, but they were already seating at 6:30 since the show started at 7:00. The seat was to the far left and three rows from the back. Wouldn't have been too much of a problem but that the land of giants decided to sit in front of me. Saw most of the action, except when Lee or someone, mostly Lee, sat down stage front. Won't go into detail other than to say he was everything I'd hoped -- and that's saying a lot given the build up in my mind and nurtured by all the previous reports.

No sign of pain and he bounced around the stage with great enthusiasm. The smile was there in all its now-famous glory. And Oh, my word, that voice!!!! Really does make the hair on the back of your neck stand up. Is it legal for one man to have such a perfect face, voice, physique...and here I am without a bucket!

The woman sitting beside me had dragged her husband, but they both seemed to enjoy it. Though she did have the cheek to tell me she preferred the GO. Some people aren't safe to be let out without a keeper.

After the show I waited outside. There wasn't much of a crowd and two tall women said, "Oh, you're tiny, you can stand in front." The fools! So out he comes in his famous check shirt & leather jacket & starts signing pictures. At this stage I realised I have video - capabilities on my camera and began to record. Then he came over and talked to me, and the camera goes a bit wonky. Don't know why... I managed to say, "Thanks, Lee, the show was great." And he said, "Did you enjoy yourself?" Me: duh-duh-duh...

Stay tuned for the exciting tale of how our heroine encountered Our Hero again, and met a group of slightly-bonkers women in the city...

Diary of a Mad Loppy, part 3

OK, so I actually managed to sleep that night, but was up early and wandered down to our assigned meeting place early. Unfortunately, the pub didn't open till 12, so I went to a coffee shop to wait for the loppies. Mad texting ensued as I tried to ensure everyone would know where to find me. Other than Eva & Sonja, I didn't know what anyone else looked like, though I was pretty sure I'd recognise a certain pink-haired lady immediately.

Around 12:10 I wandered back to the pub, got a coke (honest, guv) and sat outside to watch the world pass by. I was updating my journal, glanced up and....AAAAARRRGH! Was just in time to see HIM disappear. As I tried to re-connect my brain & my body, a familiar Nordic princess comes by. Me, frantically waving and gesturing. Her, with a smug cat-that-got-the-cream look, "I know, I talked to him!" Some people! And did she mention in her report that he was buying a copy of the Stage: thought you should know that, Scott.

So then we sat and chatted and one by one the loppies arrived, Maeve (Mabs), and Carol and Jo4. So we went inside to the upstairs where we had planned to be, while the aforementioned Nordic princess told her tale again. Then a familiar pink-headed woman arrived, and it all needed to be retold. Then Sonja arrived and it got really goofy. We had some wine, thanks to a certain Ploppy, and lunch, then Shirley & Carol thought they'd see if there might be matinee tickets available. (Lee had asked Someone if we were going to the show. Did she think to say, Gosh, Lee, we just couldn't get tickets, could you help us out? Noooo.) Anyway, the ladies managed to scare up three tickets. And the girls were very kind and said I could have the third one. (My first-born child will be in the post.)

So back to the Adelphi, and much better seats, no giants in front, and I was even able to see Dean wore blue-suede shoes, something I'd missed on Tuesday.) Lee was, if anything, even better. Maybe his close encounter with a loppy had revved him up, or maybe sitting betwee Shirley & Carol added to the fun. Either way, it was a fabulous show and I loved everything about it. Except King of My Heart. It's superfluous & doesn't fit. But that's my only gripe. Fiona was narrator both times & I liked her, but have no basis for comparison.

Before I go on, let me briefly mention I wasn't thrilled with SoM. It was OK, but nothing special. Aoife was good, not great, and Sr Bertha was played by an extra who later showed up as a guest at the Von Trapp ball. Disconcerting, to say the least. But back to the good stuff:

After the show, as you probably know, we waited behind three little girls for Lee to appear. He wore a teeshirt & a wooly scarf. On anyone else it would have been goofy. On him -- sex on legs. They really do need to keep buckets at the door for those of us who melt into puddles of mush when we see him. Shirley introduced Carol as the original loppy, and Lee talked to her. I was all forgotten -- thanks for that, Shirley! But never mind. The good news is: I'm coming to the Tearfest! Thanks JaneE for getting me a ticket. And I'll get to meet all of you who didn't come to this fest.

Anyway, Sonja & Eva had to leave, so we had no time for anything but a brief hug. Then the rest of us, who had been joined by Debbie & Gillian, when to find a restaurant so we could have dinner. We ended in a very nice Italian place. Someone did mention garlic was good for keeping vampires away...

You can imagine the conversation. For some reason, a great deal of time was spent discussing New York, New York. And then we had to discuss the album, and the hair, and the voice... What do you mean, did we talk about anything else? What else is there?

Woke up with a very silly smile on my face. Have His autograph now on the poster as well as his publicity shot for the album.

Today, I'm going to try to decend to earth. I went to Harrods this morning & picked up some goodies for folks back home. Then got a ticket for Glengarry Glen Ross. I like Jonathan Price but I admit there was an effort of will in getting a ticket to that play, rather than going back to Joseph for the third day running.

I have about fifteen minutes left on the 'net, so will sign off & try to read up what I've been missing. Home tomorrow. Sigh. But before I go, let me say thanks to everyone who showed up for the fest, and for Fi meeting me for coffee on Tuesday (you don't know how you helped me calm down!), and of course Sonja & Eva for the ride from the airport. I have a vision of a multicoloured retirement home in our futures -- Joseph's home for retired loppies...In the meantime, see you on the blog, and again in person in June. Unless anyone comes to visit me in Dublin before then!

PS: Forgive the typo in part 2: the woman next to me said she liked the CO. Obviously the GO is much more on my mind!

Hi ladies , in a mad hurry but just seen they are asking for questions for Lee via Donna's site, with prizes to be won. Seem to want questions about music,

Now will try to read war and peace oh sorry Geri's blog!!!

Eva - I got your photos fine (and twice). Thanks so much. Lovely to see you all having such a great time!

Geri - what a fabulous report!! Thanks for that! Soo funny that you saw JD on the tube!! What are the chances of that?? I think 'sex on legs' is the perfect description of the GO. So glad you had a good time! Heres abit of trivia - I once shared a lift with Jonathan Price!! He was in Uncle Vanya at the Barbican many years ago and a crowd of us got in the same lift as him!! It was all I could do to keep a straight face as he was trying desperately to blend into the background!! As it turns out I was the only one in the group who knew who he was!!

Gerifest Loppies - the ALW Seat was P33 in the Dress Circle!! Jo4 what was your seat???

Aunty Eva - congrats on winning the SCD Album!!!

Geri - poor you - the encounter being with the CO rather than the GO and him going grey as well. Thats why I cant understand him being mooted for Joseph in June as apart from looking old, bald and grey (which I suppose a wig will hide) what about the BODY, there is no way he can hide wrinkles, sagging skin etc, and those people in the front rows will be just nauseated (buckets needed for another reason). I cant see it being a starter I'm afraid. Donny would have been a much better choice if ALW wants to go down that route, he does still have lots of fans (I cant see why ALW is so-pro-the-CO)

Just been on to Donna's forum and the link to ask questions for Lee (Pauline2 post). The site is pretty cool and they promise not to just ask questions about his hair!. I have just put a question on but its not wildly original!! I am trying to think of a wacky one so that I will win a prize!! Worth doing and keeping an eye out for the interview when its done as it should be good.

Hi it's me again!! Life settling a bit (fingers and toes crossed) though poor sloppy has to have a minor op., but as she is 93 a bit of a worry. (you'll now guess I'm no spring chicken years wise only in my head)
Sort of caught up I think. I just loved all your reports and Geri you seem to have my sort of luck, as I'm part Irish doesn't say much for luck of same does it!? However you sound to have all had the best time. I actually had contact with CO in my former life (flying) He sat on the floor in a door way all the way from London to Bangkok v. strange and very inconvenient to say the least!!
Have just seen radio 2 playlist for next week and Lee is on it, but with WCWMTW and its on their c list whatever that means but however anyone can make him c list..GGGRRRRR

http://backstagepass.seatwaveblogs.com/2007/11/got_a_question_for_lee_mead.php
Here's the link ladies. Just having Carol proof read my question. Things can get horribly garbled when my head is bad. What am I talking about - they get horribly garbled all the time!!!!!!!

Some of the questions are really interesting (shame mine wasn't very!!) The one about performing for the last time is good (abit morbid though) and I rather like the question 'what do you want for Christmas'!! As I said above if some of these questions do get answered the interview should be good! I had been concentrating on all Lee's TV appearances and magazine interviews, completely forgetting that there will be some internet stuff as well!! Good old Google!!

Shirley2, I agree with everything you say except just the one.... Not sure ALW does support JD - remember how he snubbed him so publicly at the Diana concert? Could JD's quote on Sky have been his own attempt to drum up support for himself from his fans??

Hi Pauline2 - Hope your Sloppy copes with the surgery OK - as you say always a worry. If WCWMTW is on their c playlist does that mean if we deluge their shows with requests for it we get it lots more plays?? Worth a shot in any case. Certainly I had emailed them saying I loved hearing it on Ken Bruce and please could they play it some more.

Wow Geri - thanks for that wonderful report! - Your brush with the CO made me snigger - if only he knew that just last week you were dropping him down a volcano! But the GO spoke to you!!! Hurrah!!!

And I've got a certain small Irish person's ticket for Tearfest tucked away!

Well done prize winning Eva! I'll check my e-mails as soon as I can, but it won't be till Sunday I'm afraid.

I'm off out tonight with a friend, Carol you'll be pleased to know I'll be keeping up the Lush-Loppy reputation with a bottle of something pink & fizzy!

Shirley - I've a feeling that ALW said in one of the early ADWD shows that JD was the best Joseph (of course Lee was not in the frame then) or I've seen him quoted elsewhere as saying or implying it (again pre-Lee). Re his Sky quote - he is big headed enough to think he's the greatest. Am still trying to think of a question for Lee

Just posted mine - questions being posted thick and fast. Isn't it nice that someone is going to interview him about something other than his hair or his personal life.

Geri, loved your reviews and hope you have a safe and boring journey home tomorrow. (Truly not a bad thing to wish for anyone - the last thing on earth I want when I am flying is excitement - unless it were along the lines of a certain BHB sitting next to me of course)

Jane have a lovely night out - and you are planning to be hung over and out of touch until Sunday??? Wow - even Carol will be impressed!!!!!!!!!

II have just posted my question for Lee. Hope they can interview him intelligently this time.
Have tried to send my photos to the ones of you that was thrown back at me earlier today, and hope it's more successful this time.
JaneE,- have a nice night out and let the fizz flout!
Shirley,- hope your head is better and that you had a good rest.
Geri,- you have a safe journey home tomorrow and let us know when you have landed safely.
Pauline2,- good to see you back with us again.

Geri a very safe journey home tomorrow - it was lovely meeting you! Jane E - that's what I like to hear! Plenty of practice Lushes ready for the Stratfordfest please!!
Just going to do some cooking and then off for rehearsal! Catch up later!

Hello Ladies

Glad the GERIFEST went really well it was lovely to see all the photos!!!!! Thanks Shirley and Eva!

Shirley's photos are on my site and so are some amazing ones from Kaz Miller

Look and Lust!

Eva I want to know your story too!!!

Donna
xxxxxx

Haven’t read all the post yet but have picked up that Eva is having trouble sending photos. Scollop (that travels) he puts photos on the web using picasa (Google) and it’s free. People can then go and look and download if they want.
Ploppy put our EAfest photos on picasa and then sent invites to Ali - Fi and Shirley to have a look. When I’ve gone to work Ploppy is going to have a play with picasa to see about making it open to public view so you all can see the three of us! (Ali –Fi and Maggie)

Have all you Gerifest Loppies come down to earth from cloud 9 yet? Pleased you all had such a wonderful time and wish I could have joined you, but i had to go wxxk. Am I jealous of you seeing Joseph and actually talking to GO, You bet!!!!!
Thanks for the photos Eva.
Have a safe journey home Geri.
If you hi - jack Lee for the Stratfordfest please return him to the Adelphi for Monday 28th as that's when I'm seeing Joseph.
Such a lot to look forward to. I'm excited about seeing Him on TV for CiN, SCD etc
Just going to eat, be back later.

Eva yes please for the photos
Geri-safe journey home . I've got to go to work now bye

Girls, your meeting in London sounds lovely.
And is Lee not a darling to give his best to all the Loppies.
Well he probably meant the ones at the Gerifest but I take it as a greeting to me too.

Sometime this evening, between getting home from work and pouring myself a glass of red, I am sure I saw a comment about the Radio 2 playlists, and that Lee's single, the 'Why can't we make things work' one, was in the radio 2 'C' list, and how we could lobby the Beeb to get it promoted.

Well I checked the playlists, and the 'C' list is correct, but can I find where I saw the original comment?? Not a chance!!

Anyway, my memory aside, I checked the playlist info, and also last weeks list, and songs can be promoted, or demoted, from one week to the next, eg, Katie Melua has gone up, Leona Lewis has gone down to 'B', presumably as everyone has heard it enough by now. It also says the song has to be commercially available, and of course Lee's single is not out until 3 December, although they can include album songs as well. Perhaps he is only in the 'C' list as the song is not yet on sale? So the few plays are just 'teasers'?

The point of this is, how do we get Radio 2 to promote the single? Lobby the Beeb? He's not mentioned on Radio 1 at all.

I guess I now put this on Donna's site as well. I wish I knew where I saw it first!!!

Found it further up this blog!!!

Geri - what a brilliant report of your day. Have a safe journey home.

Eva - thanks for the photos - it's great to be able to put faces to names at last. We should start some kind of shared loppy album from all the various fests.

This might sound a bit weird but you all look so familiar!!!!! It's as if I'm looking at pics of people I already know!! How is that??

Jane E - have a good weekend. Do the lushloppies proud.

Hi not long home after long day. Strictly Lee in just over a week - a double delight.

Thanks fro photos Eva - Your idea of shared album is good Karen - is that what you were suggesting maggie that your ploppy could do?

Anyone else tempted by the extra CiN tickets? very tempted but ploppy not home and do need to just discuss with him and also as late start guess i would need to stay over so need to find out about the hotel etc. Too tired to think straight just now so will go and have tea and glass of wine - bound to clear my head!- and mull it (wine and CiN) over.

Another left out loppie just saying how glad you all had such a great time.Nooo of course we're not jealous! Isn't it amazing how many loppies have "bumped" into his loveliness since our loppiedom started? I assume the ears have yet to make their first appearance?
Is there any chance I too could have a photo - I have all these images of you all in my mind - would like to see if any of them are remotely right?? I'll send an e mail to Gillian and see what she suggests?
As for Lee appearing on Strictly - as I said to Ploppy - what more could you possibly want and well worth the licence fee for that one programme alone - clever timing too - just before the album release.
Wonder how John Barrowman feels as his CD is released the week before Lee's- whose will do best do you think?

Evening all.

I keep reading about all the new appearances coming up and worry that I'll miss something then I remember Donna's fab site and know that I'll only have to go on there to catch up. THANKS AGAIN DONNA!

Maggie, please let us know if your ploppy can sort out the photos. That'll be a really nice idea.

Have lovely evening Jane E. Pink and fizzy describes Shirley to a 'T'! Good luck to your sloppy Pauline2.

Not too long on here tonight. I've posted my question - not a brilliant one but I'm hoping it'll get noticed. All the good ones have been asked. A Lee calendar is an excellent idea. Another one for the Crimbo pressie list if it happens.

I'll read on later but but now I must sort out dollops bath etc.
Night all. x

Well it's been a while since I last posted. I have managed to keep up - sort of - with all the goings on.. and I'd just like to add my tuppence worth on last night's Gerifest.
First though, Carol's Ploppy is the best. Not only for the purple drinks voucher, but for dropping me on my doorstep (not literally you understand). It was good to have a travel companion home, even if a sprint to catch the train was called for - - if we'd paid attention rather than chatting whilst on the tube.. Enough said.
What fun it was to meet a whole lot more Loppies. Even though I came late to the game, sadly missing out on meeting Eva (but there's next Friday) and seeing Sonja again, I certainly didn't feel I'd missed out on any fun. Yes of course I missed all the GO action but there was so much chatting and lots of stories to hear – and hear again (tell me what He said again …) It was nigh on impossible to have a one to one conversation with anyone – my fault entirely… I just didn’t want to miss anything that was going on – any mores delicious snippets of up close and personal GO moments. I felt like a kid let out of school early. But it so, so lovely to meet Geri, Maeve, Debbie and Jo4 – can’t believe I’ve met so many Loppies – I think it’s 12 now.. Could be more. And then there are going to be a few more at CiN… I am so excited about this.
Thanks Eva, I got the photographs eventually.. Talking of photos, Shirley you definitely got some good close up of those languorously long and soft curls. (she sighs deeply and dreams of running her fingers through those locks).
Geri, hope you have a safe journey back to the Fair City now that you’ve had your fill of musical theatre (with one exception of course).. Do hope we get to see you again before too long.
Right – it’s time to get on with doing the boring house stuff now.. so must love and leave you.. til the next time.

As another Left Out Loppy so glad you all had such a good time and the Reports/Diary were fantastic. A big thank you to Eva for the pics and congratulations on the prize. 'Fortuosity' came to mind with the Close Encounter of a Lee kind (or was it Cosmic Ordering). I was idly waiting for the kettle to boil today thinking 'wouldn't it be great if Lee was on SCD' and Lo and Behold he will be, is this how Cosmic Ordering works? Must try it more often. The Cosmos obviously misheard Geri - GO not CO!!!

That Katie Melua song has grown on me. When I first heard it I thought it was a bit OTT but since seeing the Lee Fanvid on Youtube it all makes perfect sense. The fanvid is in mho better than the official one. Although we no longer get the Performance Channel on cable we get Music 'Juke Box' for free so I can watch Lee's ADWD video but you can't record it. I hope they put his new one on soon. I like to watch a couple of Jack Johnson's (sweet) and several James Morrison's, I love Undiscovered. I can see why Rihanna's Umbrella was so popular, the video is superb.

I'd quite like to ask Lee if he follows the other MT, ballet and opera and has favourite performers or works. Perhaps not good for his cool rock/popstar image?

Hello to Anne. Yes, it was nice to get a greeting from Lee for the Loppies.

Gillian, wish I knew how to promote Lees' record. I checked the
radio 2 playlist as I thought it more likely than radio1 as all his radio slots have been on radio 2. I do think that it may be just the start and just maybe it will go up next week, cos it does seem that albums and records of the week are A list, and as you say the album isn't out yet let alone the single.

Those photos..........................gosh!!!!!!!!!

How does one man get to be that lovely..... and whats more why aren't I a loooooot younger! Can't imagine why nobody has seen the possibilities for a calender, I think it would sell quite well!

Hello all, finally caught up on two days worth, CO hex hit, and keyboard and mouse decided to give up the ghost.

What a wonderful Gerifest, wish I could've been there, but so glad you can make the tearfest Geri, hope to see you then.

Eva, thanks for the photos, and WOW!!!!!!!!! to the Close Encounter with Lee.

Carol, so glad Lee met the original Loppy, that surely is a title to be proud of. Photos, can I have one please.

Just posted my question - I'm the first Karen not the second one - I wasn't being greedy, athough once I started thinking of questions I couldn't stop.

Btw Anne - I also took Lee's message to the Loppies as meaning all of us, not just the ones who were meeting up that day. Oh dear, have we got bad or what??

Hi, I did get back home last night, but too ..... something or other to get out laptop and clear various things, some of them asleep off the table, so went to bed.
It was lovely to meet so many Loppies and be jealous of Eva about 4 or 5 times as the encounter was retold. Nobody looked how I imagined. Yes, Eva really does look like Rita Hayworth, except the Viking helmet was covering the lovely hair.
I bought my ticket a few weeks ago and it was P33 in the dress circle. It is a seat in a row of one! I sat on 2 cushions, so I was not in contact with something sat on by ALW. I met some lovely people from Dover who had come with others in 3 coaches. One lady was lovely, a great grandmother, we had a nice chat about Cliff and Lee. Although she had preferred Lewis and Keith. She called me a ‘young lady’ just before the show started. I was flattered, until I remembered that she was almost totally blind. We had a laugh. At the interval she did say Lee had a lovely voice, so she was not deaf. One of the other ladies in front of me had to be supported by hubby during the megamix and final song; I thought she was going to fly back on to me. We should have cards to give out to give potential Loppies (and the way she lit up as Lee moved she was) to say where they can find Donna’s site.
As I was far back I could not see expressions as I could last time, so I did see more of the show. I could not see as clearly but I could hear and kept getting that strange feeling in my stomach again. It only happened when one person was singing! My favourite non Lee bit is the hoe down. I love the dancing. The couple who do most of the high lifts are excellent. Sorry, still prefer narrator (female, didn’t see Keef) and pharaoh from the tour. Anklegate: He was being careful, but still ran about, some of it has been changed to protect it e.g. he is not handled so roughly in the Potiphar wife bed scene and does a very neat ankle protecting dance. I was still saying ‘be careful, don’t dash about’ in my head, since I’ve been saying that out loud all summer to one of my loved ones, it comes naturally to me. I did enjoy it and I did have a big smile, before, during and after. I won’t go on as Geri has given more detailed review.
Geri has a lovely video of the day before, great close ups of Lee and especially good close ups of one of the checked shirts (I want one, his won’t fit, one of my own). Hope you get home safely Geri, you should YouTube your video, so every Loppy can see it.
Thanks for a lovely day Geri, Eva, Maeve, Carol, Shirley, Sonja, Debbie, Gillian and Auds. (Hope I haven’t missed anyone), phew checked photos, all there. And of course Lee, the reason we were all there. Look forward to seeing you all again next week and of course others. How may sleeps, 8 (or 7 if you happen to have a ticket for Thurs as well, I’ll be just like a commuter).

Evening Everyone - just back from rehearsal - next one will be on stage on Sunday - scarey thought! Feeling a bit whacked, so off to bed for me! Sweet Meads all and see you all on the Beach in the morning!

Got updated on Donna's site, so
Nightlee night all

Lovely reviews Geri and Jo4 and photos Eva and Shirley.
Hear hear Debbie, there's so much to keep up with at the moment Donna's site is invaluable.

Jo4,- I didn't realise you need glasses. Rita Hayworth indeed.!! If only, I say,- but thank you for the nice thought. Looking forward to see you again next week. Glad you had a good time at the show. I can't wait to see it again, - it will only be my second time, so I'm very ready for a new round.
Carol,- you deserve a good night sleep before you open the Beach Bistro tomorrow. Btw. your Ploppy really seems to be a good'un. Do you rent him out?
I'm glad my photos finally seem to have reach their destinations, even if some of you got them more than once!!! My computer really has given me problems today, and I realise why : CO is soooo jealous that I praised Lee to the skies yesterday, and Geri wasn't too enhanced by her meeting with his butt, that he decided to wreck havock wherever he can. I thought we had him well and truly buried in that volcano, but maybe we'll have to think of something else.
Good night all, sleep tight, have wonderful dreams and wake up happy.

Just keeping an eye on things on the night shift - feeling very much a left out loppy but at least I am nice and warm...lol Waving to you all:-)

Morning Beach Bunnies - and no Loppy should ever feel left out Carys - you were all with us in spirit (that's the gin, the vodka, the whisky etc. etc. etc.). Looks at bit gloomy out there - by the way hope all the EA Loppies are going to be ok today - just heard on the news they are expecting 3ft tidal surge. Please let us know you are all right! OK BHB is currently opening up, copious amounts of coffee, hot chocolate and soothing herbal teas (for those with headaches) being prepared. This morning's special dish will be poached eggs on mushrooms a la vino rosso on toasted soda bread. All the usual other dishes will be on offer. The BHB has asked if he can come in later next week as he is going to be very busy preparing for a special show............

Morning all.The poached eggs, mushrooms a la vino sounds delicous, Carol, especially on soda bread. I love soda bread, so I'll have two slices of that, please. Black coffee, for me, no unleaded. I need my caffeine kick in the mornings. I see the oversized coffee urn is gone. I suppose Geri need it back home.
Good morning sweetheart. How are you today? You look very relaxed. It i because you are surrounded by the lovely Loppies, and now you know what lovely ladies they are ???? Ah, aren't you sweet! Come here and have a cuddle,- a gentle one I promise. Of course you can come in a bit later next week. We know it is a busy week for you, and we want you fighting fit for Friday. I tell you what: I'll personally serve you breakfast every morning, and I'll do it with a smile.
CO is still with me. I had to reboot once this morning. I have been thinking about what we could do next to get rid. Maybe Geri can take him on the plain and throw him out somewhere over the Irish Sea? I'm sure he'll come with her, now that they are acquainted. They have been introduced, even if it was face to butt!!! Or does anybody else have a better idea.? I did toy with the idea of taking him into the Channel Tunnel, open one of the air vents, push him in there and close it behind him. I think he must be paid by my cancelled Internet Provider to make trouble for me. but from end of next week I shall be free of them forever. Maybe CO will go away then too. I won't hold my breath.
Oh, BHB, that coffee and food was lovely. I needed something hot. It's freezing outside, but just your presence is enough to warm my cockels. One of your megawatt smiles makes my toes curl. Another cuddle? Oh yes, please!!

Just heard the news about possible flooding in EA today. You Loppies up there, stay safe and dry, please. Sending good vibes your way.

Morning all - just watching the news - it looks horrendous in EA - take care and stay safe all EA loppies. Perhaps you should make your way to the safety of the Bistro where the BHB will look after you and serve you some of Carol's lovely breakfast.

Morning again - forgot to say Geri hope the journey home is ok! I will be missing from here for most of the day as I am off this afternoon for costume collection and then in charge of making sure everyone has one, and that they fit! Ploppy taking me out with friends to eat after that. On the good news front my little car is coming back from the garage today, all mended, but at a cost of £861 - still the RAC man said it could be as much as £1,200, so I suppose we should be grateful!! Eva - now there's a thought - I could hire Ploppy out as part of our fund raising for the GO - oh he is so nice about Loppies - he loves us, he loves us!! OK still on my cloud!

Good morning all you lovely Loppies. Sulking in a corner I am. Not allowed anything to eat or drink until after my fasting blood test. Pooey, and those alcoholic eggs and soda bread smell just wonderful. Just a glass of water for me please. I need something to sob into.

EA Loppies hope all is well with you. My grandfather was the deputy harbour master in Gt Yarmouth so they lived on the Fish Wharf and when the last floods hit I vaguely remember the panic in the night as they tried to carry furniture upstairs. My parents were out for the evening, and could not get back. It was all very very frightening. At least they are giving people good warnings now. But my thoughts are with you all. Take Care.

Hello all, I'm back!! Glad to hear the Gerifest went so well and loved the photos. Looking forward to seeing all the CiN Loppies next week.

My thoughts are with the EA Loppies. My younger scollop is on an activities week from school at a centre on the North Norfolk coast, but they are at the top of a cliff so hopefully will have been alright. He'll be back later today, maybe with some tales to tell!

WEE HEE. Back and eating. You know they tell you never to shop when you are hungry??? Well I popped into Somerfields (I know, I know, but it is right by the surgery) and came out with:
1 LARGE bag of crisps
1 tub super rich coleslaw
2 cheese danish thingies
2 cherry and almond danish
You know I think they might just have a point!!!!!!!!!!!! Have just polished off the first cheese danish and going to have a large milky coffee.
And then to going to settle down and do some overdue paperwork.

A post-fasting feast always tastes the best, Shirley!! Enjoy!!
And once again, hello from me again. Stuck at work and frankly can't wait to get home - which really sounds as if I'm wishing my life away but I'm not, just on a cold, windy day I fancy curling up on the sofa with a fluffy blanket (see? Not a duvet in sight in this dream!) and a good book and a gin (but only after midday of course), but that will all have to wait until later, or until tomorrow. .. but off I go as my captive audience awaits! Hope you all have a really good day!!

Hi All, hope all went well yesterday, Sonja.

Hope, too, all coastal loppies are warm and dry and toasty. I can't imagine how terrifying it must be to be faced with flooding conditions like that. Glad the weather wasn't quite as savage as was initially reported.

I've checked out of my hotel & am now esconsced at the internet cafe in Tottenham Court Road. I seem to be doing a tour of internet cafes. (There's probably a travel book being written even now -- "The Internet-User's London".) My plane doesn't leave till 5:35pm so I'll be just killing time till then. Plan to head to the tube to go to Heathrow around noon.

My bag is considerably heavier than it was when I arrived. Can't imagine why. You don't suppose there's any correlation between the proximity of Foyles and the weight of my suitcase? No, I didn't think so, either.

Last night I went to see Glengarry Glen Ross at the Apollo. Belatedly realised it is another RUG theatre. I feel like I've contributed to their coffers very generously this week. The least they could do in return is release a new Joseph soundtrack, with the GO. Anyway, about the play: let me admit first off, David Mamet is not everyone's cup of tea. I quite like him, but his humour is very dark. Performances were excellent & Jonathan Pryce in particular. He is such a talented actor and very cute in a rather saturnine way. I would recommend it, but only if your tastes run to very black comedy.

OK, I have lots of time, so will wander over to Donna's site to see what I've been missing, and will check back in to say goodbye before I head off.

Thanks to everyone who voiced their concern for us loppies.
I live about 60miles from Great Yarmouth and Ali is about 30miles away and Fi is miles away!
Ploppy has made the picasa album open to view http://picasaweb.google.com/thefatcontroller4
EAfest
The first lovely lady you see is Fi wearing a very nice necklace - and earrings to match
Then there is Ali - the younger member of our group in the green. And then there is me in the black (Diet starts Monday how many times have I said that)
Also there are the photos that Ali got and couldn’t open

Oh thanks for that Maggie - glad to hear you are all ok!! Was very worried when I saw the News at 6.15 this morning - had visions of headlines like "Loyal Loppies Washed Away by Tidal Wave" "Loppies seen building a rescue raft" etc.! Managed to just about view the piccies of you all before the Office computer decided you were undesirables and aborted the operation! Hope it wasn't too painful! Geri have a good final day in London and a safe return. I'm off shortly (don't call me Shortly!) so will catch up with you all much later!

Morning Loppies!

My friend and I had a lovely evening last night - we said hello to two big bottles of sparkling rose - how very civilized.

My colleague here has just been telling me about the flood warnings. All the best you EA Loppies, I'm thinking of you.

Geri - hope you're flight back is OK. I'll send on that Tearfest ticket next week!

Nice to have you back Jackie. Let's hope that CO starts behaving himself.

Right - am I too late for breakfast? What! Shirley's finished the last of it! Huh!

Going down to Birmingham this evening. I'll be back Sunday -

Then back to Birmingham on Tuesday, and at long last, London - Wednesday and JOSEPH!! I understand one or two of you have seen it.

Is it any good?

Hi Maggie - thanks for the photos and for letting us know you guys are OK!

Maggie,- thank you for letting us see the picture. More facec to names. Lovely!
Sonja,- be kind to your students and blind them with science. Seriously, just be your lovely self, and they'll adore you.
Shirley,- I got hungry again just reading your post, but being a good little diabetic I consoled myself with a banana ! Not quite the same as a Danish though.
JaneE,- if you stay around a little longer, maybe you can have some lunch!! If you ask BHB nicely, I'm sure he'll rustle up something for you. He has a " Be kind to a Loppy" - day!! Not that he isn't kind, lovely, gorgeous, sexy, wonderful, handsome every day. I did get a bit carried away there. It is so easily done, I'm afraid.
Geri,- again have a safe journey home, and if you bump into CO on your way, give him a kick up his backside from me and tell him to stay away !!!! I tried to send a photo to a friend and the PC crashed 3 times before it worked !!!

Well, I've been a dutiful loppy and voted for Lee in all the sites I could access from this nutty site. (Can't see pics, or get into a bunch of sites). Did, rather foolishly, try to access my e-mail, but the server buckled under the bunch of messages waiting for me and I was only able to open one (hi again, Maeve!).

Well, before I ride off into the metaphorical sunset (what with it being noon, and all), let me thank you all for your extraordinary kindness, welcome, and all round loveliness! I can't imagine fans from other sites that will remain nameless, being so welcoming to an out of town loppy. You are all fluffy, cuddly and adorable and I love you all. No, I haven't been drinking!

Will see you all at the TearFest and, if my schedule permits, maybe for a day or two before then. Next time, Scott, no excuses -- missing you was the one downside of the whole week. Well, that and being nose-to-butt with the CO. Would be a thrill for some, I'm sure, but not for me.

I'll wave at you all from the plane as I fly away. Eva, Sonja, see you in Dublin!

Hello from a very blustery East Anglia, as Maggie said we are all far enough from the coast not to be affected by the flodding but it is just a bit windy? Once again your ploppy has come up trumps Maggie, if you get Eva's pics maybe he can add them too?
Added my question to the GO, I'm number 100!! Off to catch up elsewhere now, byee!

Flodding??? should have been FLOODING obviously!!

Maggie,- I did send you my photos, didn't I? If your Ploppy can add them to yours, he is more than welcome to do that.
Pleased to hear that you are well away from the potential floods.

I sent a rapport about my Close Encounter to my friend, Anne Grete, in Spain, and added your photo too, Shirley. Hope that's OK. I just had an e-mail back, and her reaction was as a Floppy's should be. The OMIGODS were streaming out of the PC, envious was the word of the day, but the sweet lady she is, she insisted that GO should also be on cloud nine after meeting ME. Don't I have lovely friends?

Eva, to save your computer I just forwarded you email and photos off to Maggie If that does not work Maggie I will send them one at a time..Eva, be my guest. Just credit me with it is all.

OK 2 mins catch up before I rush out the door. Maggie, Fi and Ali - managed to open the piccies here without my machine crashing, and very lovely you all look too! My only concern is that you are obviously in a bar/hotel/restaurant/place that serves alcohol.................and all I could see were coffee cups!!! Reassure me please, otherwise I may jsut have to pay you a visit so you may participate in my intensive Lush programme!

Yay it's Friday afternoon. I for one am really pleased to see the weekend. It's been a hectic week. It's so cold out. Think I might become duvet girl this weekend.

Maggie thanks for sharing your photos. It was really good to put a few faces to names. Most of you didn't look like I was imagining. Were the London ones on Wednesday? Lots of wine glasses I noticed but Carol was there so say no more! I haven't met anyone yet but hopefully will meet lots of you on Friday. I know a lot of you will be staying at a hotel so you will probably meet up there. Can someone let me know the arrangements for meeting before the show please? Fingers crossed I should be able to get away from work early and am trying to plot a half day if I can.

Carol as Chief Lushloppy I'm sure you wouldn't condone drinking and driving so no alcohol unfortunately, however I for one promise to make up for it on the 16th with the help of a few others!

Alison we are not organised enough to have plans yet. But we will, we will. If everyone who is coming could email me with their mobile number and the time they expect to arrive I will organise a form like Carol did for the Gerifest so we can easily contact each other. If you dont mind we will do all that stuff by email, along with the details of where we will be meeting/staying and eating and so on. No need to broadcast that sort of information to the world.

Hurrah! The weekend has just arrived!
Ploppy is picking me up in five minutes,then we're on our way to Brum.

My boss has just been trying to schedule me in for a meeting on Wednesday, No! I think not! I have much more important things to do!

Have a great weekend Loppies - see you later!

Maggie, Ali & Fi - so nice to see you. I am liking this putting faces to names. We're having another Yorkshirefest at the end of the month so hopefully we can get some pics to share.

Actually we're going to see the touring Joseph - Jane, tickets just arrived today, somehow they're not generating the same excitement as the Adelphi ones did. Wonder why that is!!!!!!!!!! Still looking forward to the fest though!!

http://www.leemeadmusic.co.uk/

Listen up ladies - ITS LIVE

Thanks Donna

Thanks to Mel on Donna's forum, who spotted it, the website referred to on the HMV flyer is up and running - I'd been checking it myself but not today:))

http://www.leemeadmusic.co.uk/
The audio page has longer excerpts of the same songs as on the Joseph site.

Ooh I can't listen as I am at work!! You can also sign up to recieve emails and text messages from the site!!

Thanks for the link, Shirley and Gillian. Have been listening a couple of times now, and because the clips are longer, it's easier to form an opinion about the songs. PiB will take a bit getting used to, because the music is much stronger and the tempo a bit different. Personally I think "You and Me" and " I want to make it with you" are the best.

Oh Wow - thanks for the link Shirley & Gillian. I have just one thing to say - ROLL ON THE 19TH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Make it with you is my fave so far - the softness of his voice just makes me melt - it's the same hairs on back of neck standing up feeling as CED. Stunning!!

I played golf this morning, and as my foot is playing up again, in a buggy. Trouble with that is you never really warm up, especially when the course is as crowded and slow as it was this morning. So, I fancied a nice warming casserole for dinner, thinking, I've plenty of time for it to slow cook. First I had time for a bit of Lee surfing.....But just as I thought I'd finished Lee surfing, there's the new music site, and I HAD to listen to each song about 6 times, before it occurred to me to see if The Stage Loppies knew about it. It wasn't until after I'd posted here that I remembered to put the dinner on!!

Maybe it won't be quite as slow cooked as it should be! Luckily, I was in the kitchen when ploppy got back from his golf, so I'm not too much in disgrace, let's just hope the dinner tastes OK:)))

Thanks for that. I presume the signing up is for the same emails we get from Claire on Lee's Official Site 'Mailing List'?
'Make it with You' is so spine tinglingly wonderful. So looking forward to the release day. Will my pre-order be sent out on or for the 19th? I'll regret it if I could've dashed into the Supermarket on the offchance of getting my hands on it on the day.
Greetings to the trio Maggie, Fi, Ali (waves).
Happy landing to Geri, what a lot of memories to savour. The toast is 'here's to the next time'. Looking forward to my own mini-fest with Kathleen on 28th Jan.

Hope your dinner is cooked Gillian. I was supposed to have been doing UCAS forms, will go and get started now.

Eva I LOVE this version of PiB. My favourite Stones album by a mile is Their Satanic Majesties Request- the one that was strongly influenced by Brian Jones, and Lee's PiB reminds me so much of that. I just had to post another question on that site to ask if TSMR was an influence on it.

I rang the BBC ticket people earlier. They have not allocated any seats for MMJ yet, but worth checking ever few days he said. And they SLIGHTLY over issue the tickets just so that there are no empty seats. He was very clear that it is only a small number over that they issue and they intend that everyone who gets a ticket and who can get there will get a seat. Has anyone had a 'get stuffed' message from them recently???????

Shirley, my dear ploppy has cocked up my e-mail address so at the moment I am e-mailless. He was trying to help (by trying to enable me to access e-mails on the laptop) so I should'nt berate him toooo much. I didn't receive a "get stuffed" letter and I thought it was tomorrow that they let us know but I now have nowhere they can e-mail me to tell me I have won!! Can I call them? What is the number. EMERGENCY! EMERGENCY!

Got to cook dollop and friends dinner before she has to go home so will check back later...

I haven't had a get stuffed email yet but I didn't send my request in till about 9pm and from what others have said that may be too late... so I'm holding my breath

Hi all just got in after manic day... well long lunch with friend with a bit of alcohol thrown in. This was my reward as funnily enough I had a fasting blood test too!! Don't mind the test but the fasting.. not me at all.
Thanks for the link, also love MIWY and PIB, what is sad is that I was there first time around for them both, but think Lees' versions are even better as his voice is so good, and he's so yummy!! Not much competition there!
Shirley I applied for MMJ tickets and so far so good but just can't believe I'll be lucky enough to get tickets, trying hard to pretend I don't care but not succeeding.

What a difference in the sound quality on LeeMead Music to the tinny sound on the Joseph Site, really excellent. Ploppy has just listened to PiB and has pronounced it essentially the same as the programme voice wise and very commercial, he loves it, as do I of course.
I was very touched by reading some people's accounts on Donna's site of what this song means to them.

Loved the photo's Maggie. What a nice way to share you photos with people around the world.
I am listening to Lee while I am reading all your posts.
Till now my favourite is You and Me. I love the way he's voice sound. A bit husky.
I also have to say that PiB is growing on me. I still can hear Lee's lovely voice and picture him singing it on ADWD.
For all the loppies in the UK November 19th is a big date but for me the big date is November 21st.
I discovered on a Dutch postordercompany website that I can order the cd of Lee Mead!!
I asked the recordcompany if that meant that de cd will be released in other countries also but that was not the case "as Lee is very busy right now"
Well that is no news to us. Anyway I will have the cd at home in my cd player in 11 days! Yippeeee.

Oh dear Debbie, but at least you are in touch here. The number you need is 0870 9011227, and you will need your booking reference. Do you know yet if you are able to come next Friday??
And Ann how brilliant that you are able to get the album too. I am organising a relief delivery for one or two of the American Loppies who cannot get it there. My Ploppy is off to the States no the third week of my holiday so I will give them to him to post there. If we can get enough albums signed on 19th we might eveb be able to get a signed one for them.

Shirley just finishing the picasa site but i am missing names from 3 pics 009, 159 and161 if you can let me know the names as you have done on the others it would be useful.
Maggie has just logged on and seen that you have posted recently and got me to give you a shout.
site address will follow when It is done

OK Maggie's Ploppy - good to 'meet' you. I just sent you an email with all our names.

Shirley,- I never was a Stone fan. When they burst on the scene I was already deeply in love with Cliff baby, and that decided my pop musical taste for years to come. It took me years to properly appreciate The Beatles, but I never have warmed to The Stones. So you see, aside from " Satisfaction" my knowledge of Stones music is very limited and Lee's version of PiB on ADWD is the first one I have really liked. That's why this slightly different version will take a bit to get used to.
Anne,- when Maggies Ploppy has done his sterling work, you'll be able to see what we look like. I am so glad you can get The Album sent to you. I plan it as Christmas presents for my Floppies.
Debbie,- hope you are soon back to normal services. It is almost frightening how dependent we are on a contraption that I didn't even have 6 years ago.

Hi, Anne - could you post address of the website you are ordering the CD from? I'm also in the Netherlands (American, not Dutch) and am trying to figure out the best (cheapest) way to get the CD. How much is it with shipping? Thanks!

So they definitely said it won't be in the shops outside the UK? What does that have to do with Lee being busy? Too bad for the rest of the world. Americans can order it from Amazon but they are charging $45 (compared to $15 for a typical CD) for it so I doubt it will be a big hit there until it is actually in the stores for a reasonable price. Someday he will be famous everywhere!

just need to lie here, love the longer bit of Make it with you. I know I'm just going to have it play over and over again when I get cd. Karen-hairs on neck, I know.
ps is there a knack with the photos? error 404

Jo4,- I got the same message, but I think that when Maggies Ploppy has finished his work, there will be a new link.
How do the cats like " I Want to Make It With You" ? Better than the firework I hope.

There's a thread on the .org site about an article in Bliss magazine. Check it out here. http://www.leemead.org.uk/viewtopic.php?t=1472
One of the Lovelees has typed it all out.

Good evening Ladies, Maggie has told me that people have been having fun trying to send and download your Loppie pictures for the purpose of putting names to faces. Maggie has asked me to help …if that’s ok with you all.

So hear goes …I have taken the liberty to created a page where all these photo’s can be placed, these can then be viewed and downloaded by anybody should you want to, all you have to do is e-mail Maggie the photo’s you want uploaded and I will do the rest (please send photo’s direct and do not attach to any other document, this will help with the quality, and please include names of subjects with the photo’s) avoid sending too many at once, the e-mail host will not be able to handle it… if in doubt send by multiple e-mails.

The page is on a site called Picasa supplied by Google.
(This is an extension of my own account)

The address is http://picasaweb.google.com/loppyladies/Loppies

Any problems I can be reached via Maggie’s E-mail

The address Maggie told you all earlier is no longer valid the address above is now the only way to retrieve these photos and if anybody has a suggestion of how to improve the page let us know.

Hi Jackee,
I ordered the CD at the following website: www.bol.com
The price of the CD is € 23,99. Although when I placed my order 2 days ago the price was still € 22,99.
The shipping to an address in Holland and Belgium is € 1,95.
Shipping of a CD to the rest of the world is € 3,45.

Below you see the reply I got from the recordcompany on my question if the CD would be released abroad.

Hi Anne,

We are going to concentrate on the UK at the moment but are probably going to release him abroad as well…. But this is not going to be soon. He is busy performing every night here too so promoting his new album abroad would be tricky….

Let me know if you need anything else.

I just love the term : "going to release him"

Eva and Shirley what lovely lady's you are taking so good care of those floppies.

Got the pictures, easy easy. Thanks Maggies Ploppy. And forgot to thank Carols Ploppy for the voucher on Weds.

Fireworks have started again, big explosions very close. Dog in corner of room hiding. Tribe seem to be taking it all calmly, or are they just hiding?

Gillian, what’s your foot doing playing in a buggy? And why only one foot – won’t the other one play too, or are they quarrelling?

Vali, you’re absolutely right about next time. Though how to beat all the fun I had this time will be a challenge. Let’s see – no CO’s rear in my face, and a nice quiet conversation with the GO would be a good start.

Oh, I’m home – and Lee loveliness on the net ready for me to listen to. I hope you’re all properly impressed that I delivered my greetings before listening to his royal lovelinees, but you'll forgive me if I disappear for a while!

PS: Eva, agree with you on the Stones & Cliff. But always loved the Beatles (esp. George).

Hi there Maggies Ploppy,- what a dear man you are. Thank you so much for that link

Thanks, Anne!

Maggie's Ploppy - I hope you are ready for a rush of photos next weekend - lots and lots being taken at the CiN.

Anne I know you were able to get your own autographed photos when you were over, but if Jackee or any of the other Floppies would like one get in touch with me, the Loppies who already have one have still been collecting them and getting them to me, so I now have some to send if you would like one. Be in touch.

Same here JO4. Solo balistic poor little thing. Well, poor big dog. Trying to climb up onto the sofa behind me. Not room for both of us, so really hard hearted and threw him back off. Explained the relative likelihood of harm being caused to him my fireworks or me. He is now hiding under the table. Certainly safe from me under there.

Glad you made it back safely Geri, and all that Lee loveliness waiting to welcome you back.

Oh dear plaintive little squeaks coming from under the table, and now I feel really mean.

Maggie's ploppy - what a star you are - thank you - I so enjoyed looking at all those photos.

Anne - I thought exactly the same about "going to release him". I have visions of somebody letting him go and a load of floppies chasing after him!!! I suspect you would be leading the charge Anne!!!???

Jo4 - same here re fireworks which came aa a big surprise to me as I really thought it would all be over by now. The plonker in the next house down is having a real firework display again (except these are louder than ever) and we have flippin force 10 gales here at the moment so they're zipping over the fence into my garden and I'm sure one has just hit the conservatory. I'm afraid my sensible refined self has deserted me and I've just been to the bottom of the garden and told him he's a f'ing moron!! The cat has taken refuge under the sofa again and I'm seriously thinking of joining her - only problem is I can't get the wine bottle under there without spilling it!!!!!

Thanks for that Shirley. I just need the site that I applied for tickets (?). Not sure if I know the booking ref. Anyhow, dearest ploppy has got me a new e-mail address so if I send them an e-mail and tell them it is new maybe they will respond. Desperate or what?! I will let you all know what it is. I can do it from the laptop now, fingers crossed.

I liked that Bliss interview. It was better because they didn't actually ask him any naff questions. He seemed more able to speak freely.

Glad you got home safely Geri.

Thanks v much Maggie's ploppy. Think there's something wrong with your pc though - we all looked much younger in real life!

Just off to watch a re-run of Dragons Den. Catch you later!

Ps Karen, pour wine into lots of glasses, put on tray and push under said table.

Whoops! Just noticed you said sofa, not table. Plan B - Get very long bendy straw, put in bottle, lie bottle at low angle near sofa and suck on straw whilst lying under sofa. At least you're closer to the floor now - handy!

I am feeling sorry for myself. Was sat down and ready for a long Skypetalk with my niece in Chile,- but could I get through? Not on your Nelly.!! So now I have sent her an e-mail, left message on Facebook asking her to ring me. Sitting here waiting and waiting. I'll just watch Have I Got News for You which I fortunately had the wits to record.

I have this wonderful mental image of Karen out in her garden, hair blowing everywhere, screaming abuse into the wind. Great stuff Go Karen.

Ah, thank you Debbie. Methinks you have done this before - are you used to drinking wine from a lying down position - no don't answer that - than again it very much suits your lushloppy status!! I'm off to find a bendy straw!!!!!!!!

Karen I am already in training.

Glad you all have been able to put faces to names, if you get a fuzzy picture as I did a minute ago -you will have to wait and the photo will clear! Eva did you have any photos taken or are you a woman of mystery

Thankyou all for the links, I was about to have a very early night but thought I'd just check in and now I'm stuck on the laptop, glass of wine in hand (although I might just follow Debbie's suggestion and stick a straw in the bottle to save having to refill the glass!) I agree about Maggie's Ploppy's pc, I'm sure I look far more attractive in the flesh??
Must toddle off and check my emails, just had 3 pop up from a certain loppy, back in a mo

I had a play with the 3 short CD clips available on the various sites, check your inboxes, they are now very slightly longer....

Shirley - you must have a webcam in my garden cos that's pretty much what it was like. And to add to the image I'm in my PJ's, dressing gown & slippers - very attractive. Even more frustrating though, whilst I'm hurling abuse at him the p******k is yelling back "I can't hear you". The wind really is that bad here at the mo.

Multi coloured loppies?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P9aALd3wVT0

Our laptop is offended now!!! It could be your Cameras
Jo4 like the link thanks

Thanks for that Jo (until nos 1,2 & 3 show up, I think you should be the solo-Jo). I think the pink bunny should be called Shirley!

Sent some pics around & hope they all arrive safely. Especially the leather lovely!

All received Gillian, thankyou

Well its like the Battle of the Somme around here, forgotten it's Diwali this weekend. May I send lots and lots of comforting thoughts to all terrified pets?
Just read the Bliss interview, good I thought, though did have a giggle at the "black" answer "imagine if the loin cloth came off" ....doesn't he realise a lot of women have been doing just that!!

Thank you Gillian

Gillian - thank you - brilliant - swoon all over again!!!

Jo4 - that was so funny - I imagined, out of shot, Lee running away from all the multicoloured loppies.

It reminded me that yesterday, there was a lovely technicoloured rainbow outside my office window all morning - it kept a smile on my face anyway! Funny isn't it how the littlest things remind us of Him!!!

Hello all,
Seatwave is asking for reviews of Joseph. Can't post one as I've not seen it yet. Here's the link
http://theatrebuff.seatwaveblogs.com/2007/11/your_verdict_joseph.php
Thanks for all the links. Love the longer snippets from THE album especially PiB and MIWY.
Thanks to Maggie's Ploppy for the photos of everyone. It is lovely to be able to put faces to names.
Geri - pleased you got home safely.

Geri-glad you back OK, after your hectic week.
All quiet here now, dog out from corner and back on her bed.
Not certain if cats like Lee as there is no reaction. I know they don't like me playing music myself, they try to sit on the music as they know I stop playing when I can't see the pages.
Karen-never thought of that, as long as he is careful of the ankle!

Maggie it was YOUR camera!!!!

And just in case anyone cares the Stones track - She's a Rainbow - that plays behind that lovely link - thanks Jo4 - is off TSMR. So there.

And thank you Geri I would love to be that big pink rabbit sat outside St Pat's causing chaos.

Time for bed said Zebidee - and who am I to argue with a spring. Goodnight all and Sweet Meads.

Ladies!!!!!!!
It has just occurred to me Scott you also can see what we all look like (oh dear are you easily shocked) and feel free to send a photo or two!
And GO would also be able to see us (In his words Scary) if given the link!!

I'm off too, haven't made the packed lunches for tomorrow yet.
Nightlee night

Time for bed for me. But before I go, Sonja, just wanted to tell you there was an article about Finland in the in-flight magazine, complete with Finnish phrases. So, voitko vihtoa minua? (Never thought I'd say that!)

G'night all.

Evening all - back from costume distribution and pizza with friends, just had a quick read through - glad you are home safely Geri. Maggie's Ploppy - you are a star - thank you. Will catch up with the rest tomorrow, at the moment bed calls! Oh, and I think I am going down with a cold!! Sweet Meads all!!

Just to say thanks for the photos made available - lovely to "see" you all.

Just came across this on the Lee is Joseph site
http://www.newhamrecorder.co.uk/content/newham/recorder/whatson/story.aspx?brand=RECOnline&category=whatsonmisc&tBrand=northlondon24&tCategory=whatsonnewham&itemid=WeED08%20Nov%202007%2009%3A54%3A53%3A583
Just shows how lovely Lee is.

Scott you've been awfully quiet lately, isn't it about time you popped in for a chat?
And it's good night from me too now

Thanks very much Gillian for those tracks and Maggie's ploppy for setting up the page for photos, that will be so good.
Hadn't realised it was Diwali, so there'll be another wekend of fireworks.
Glad you're safely home Geri.

Maggie,- how I would love to be a lady of mystery ! But unfortunately, I am all to visible,- I just don't take photographs of myself. One of the others has to supply you with pics with me in.
I just had a lovely hour long natter with my niece in Chile. We finally got through to each other. It's coming up to full summer there now. She asked if I had been evacuated. It had been on the news over there that we were expecting flood waves here and people were being evacuated.
I think it is time for my bed. Good night all. Sleep tight, have wonderful dreams and wake up happy.

That was a strange thing to say in a magazine Geri - "Never thought I'd say that" - are you sure that's the correct translation? It looks like "virtually minute vodka" to me (such a silly idea, but then again at those prices....).

I just mistyped 'magazine' and put 'magazone'. Maybe that could be His next venture, a Magazone - the Lee Magazone with a Megamix of news and gossip. He could become a cartoon, His Meadiness.

Think I'm waffling on now so better go to bed.
Night night. x

Monring Beach Bunnies - all having a lie in today I see! Cold seems worse, so I need lots of medicinal alcohol today. I will stay away from a) Ploppy - who will doubtless catch the germs by mid week and b) the BHB waiter as he is going to be very busy this week. Will go to Pharmacy today and buy lots of things to dose myself up. It is wild and woolly here today but the Battle of the Somme Part II seems to have ceased for a while p doubtless it till be back later! In view of my germs I have asked the BHB to prepare all the breakfasts this morning and I am going to sit quietly in the corner as is my wont, sipping this very nice coffee he has made me.

Oh dear Carol. I think we need to reopen the sick bay. I was up most of the night with V&D. Not going near the BHB with that either. He needs to be fighting fit with the schedule he is working to at the moment. But so do you Carol. I thought Lush Loppies had a good immunity to viruses - you have so little blood in your alcohol stream they cant survive. Does this mean that you have been exaggerating your incohol intake?? No, No scrub that. I know it is a stupid question

Can I just have a glass of hot water with a slice of lemon please BHB- no nothing at all to eat thank you.

Debbie, that wasn't a translation. And you'll have to wait for Sonja to clear it up.

Now, I'm rolling up my sleeves because you can't expect that poor boy to do everything on his own -- work in the kitchen, serve tables, take your temperature -- Shirley, if you must have a thermometer it'll go in your mouth! (Thank goodness, quiet at last!) No, it's OK, BHB, you serve Eva, and Debbie, and the other girls while I give these sickies some old fashioned care. Oh, how kind you are to think of me -- some pancakes with syrup and a nice hot chocolate would be lovely. I'll have them right after I give these two a sponge bath... Your shoulders are bothering you from carrying that heavy tray? No, I don't mind giving you a massage. Sorry, ladies, the sponge bath will have to wait a few minutes. Yeah, yeah, you'll get your breakfast. Right after I look after our long-suffering waiter...

Morning all. Only two miserable beach bunnies here with you, BHB? The blonde bombshell drinking her coffee avec what? in the corner and the pink seashell hot water? I'll have the full English then, please, hold the black pudding. It's just to keep you occupied, BHB, you undestand that ? You look spruce today, in that checkered shirt and wollen scarf. I know, I know, you singers need to look after your voices.( He's on again about that London job.) Tell that to I there in the corner. BHB, you are the kindest man alive.!!! He just gave his scarf to Carol. Her eyes went all watery and blank, and her expression is one of total bliss. Funnily it's the same expression she had when she had spoken to GO after the matinee. Oh well, she is a bit delusional today, poor thing.
Scott dear,- did you go running screaming into the woods after seeing our photographs? Have another look and you'll notice how demure and pleasant we look. Don't let Shirley's pink hair frighten you. It's just a front. She is a pussycat, really. Anyway, we'll see you on the SCD blog tonight.
Busy day ahead. ladies. Don't know when I'll pop in again. BHB, don't work too hard. You want a cuddle before I go? Of course. Mmmmmmmmmmm. (That was me humming.)

Sorry Geri,- I didn't see you there at first. I should be used to looking down when you are around. You look after the patients, I'll take care of BHB.

REMEMBER, REMEMBER THE 10TH NOVEMBER!!!!!!

Apparently there is an interview with Lee in today's Express!!! Just sent hubby to barber's and paper shop with strict instructions to buy said newspaper AND Bliss Magazine!!!!! Didn't know that Hubby was capable of raising his eyebrows THAT FAR!!!!! But he said he would get both to keep me happy!!!!

Will post info / scans on site later!

Love

Donna
xxxxx

That's all right, Eva, I wouldn't want a woman of your years straining herself. I've got the two sickies set up with medicines, a hot toddy, and some reading material. Carol wanted a back-issue of Heat; something about a torso of the week. I never!
Anyway, you go put your feet up and I'll take over the cuddling of the BHB. Quiet here, this morning. Think I should get plenty of action -- I mean activity -- with the BHB before the others show up.

Dear Aunty Eva and Geri thank you for looking after us sick bunnies - the coffee is certainly doing me good. I might skip on the sponge bath though! Shirley - I don't know how this one snuck through the immune system. I blame the Tubes - heat full on regardless of the unseasonal warmth outside, and people coughing and spluttering everywhere! Off to the Pharmacy now. Catch up later when I will have had an extra large shot of medicinal incohol and be more like more usual self (now is that a good or a bad thing??).

Saturday Express landed on my doormat two minutes ago. Lee is on p.8 in his technicolour coat and lovely smile. A short, but sweet interview. Won't spoil it for you by quoting, but ENJOY !!!

Morning all

Oh dear Carol - hope you get rid of those germs before your opening night - look after yourself. You too Shirley, hope you're feeling better (was trying to work out what alcoholic drink V&D was before I realised you were ill).

Well my garden looks like I've had a firework party, thanks to my lovely neighbour. At least the wind has dropped a bit but now we've got the rain so I'm just going to venture out into it and clean up the garden - well when I say clean up I mean chuck the spent fireworks back over the fence into next doors garden - they are his after all so he can have them back!!!

Have a good day all.

Hope I'm not too late for brekka.. oooh, thanks BHB - "never too late" and a welcoming megawatt smile! How's a girl to remain standing in the presence of such beauty? 'fraid it's just a slice of toast with home made blackcurrent jam and an expresso for me - gotta shoot out and pick up shopping before my class (express and Bliss dontchaknow).
Precious Loppies and Ploppies -Thanks for those wonderful links -with photos and music and articles - and your emails Gillian. Heart melts as I listen to MIWY... I can't WAIT for the album to be in my sticky mits. Loved reading the article about the girls in the children's choir.. well, not so much their story but their comments about the GO talking to them... asking about their visit to Nandos. Such a considerate GO. I just Love Him. More and More. Each time I read something like that about Him.
Those Brava ads are just brilliant.. I had seen the bunny rabbit one and thought to say something on this site back when... but as I don't get much op to post lately, it slipped by. I read an article on the chap who does all these ads (remember the balls bouncing down the street in SFO? - they were real not CG) young fella with ideas just falling out of his head - interesting image??. He's responsible for the new Guinness ad - domino effect..
I digress - but not really - I was thinking that he could do a brilliant video with/for our GO.... for the next single/album.... or even, just for the Loppies!!!
Right, must dash. Lots of love all the lovely Loppies - so great to see pics of everyone.. SO looking forward to CiN. Enjoy the day one and all.

Bliss Mag scan and Express Mag Scan on my site under latest news!

Plus dear Eva's Brief Encounter with the GO and another UCAP account!!!!!

Happy Saturday!

Donna
xxxxxx

Only just caught up, lovely to read about all the exploits, and the rest of the chat.

Maggie's Ploppy, thank you so much for the photos, lovely to put faces to names, makes me much less nervous about meeting everyone next week, 6 SLEEPS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Gillian, thanks for link to Bliss interview, loved Lee's answers, can just imagine him going somewhere quiet and lovely to think, hope he still gets chance to do just that.

Jo4, loved the bunnies.

Shirley and Carol, do get better soon.

Too much illness around here, I'll haveto keep away, busy week ahead. My neighbour has called me a dirty stop out!
Waiter, hope you are feeling well after all you have a very busy few weeks coming up. Just a fruit platter and a diet coke for me.

Shirley and Carol take care of yourselves.
Got to rush now, late again!

Donna- Thanks for the updates.
Eva-ggrrrhhh 5th time I'm jealous

I'll have waffles with maple syrup please if I'm not too late....

Debbie,- still late for breakfast ? In your dressing gown and pink slippers, I presume?
Jo4,- I know you're jealous. The green face gives you away.
I received my prize today. Lovely book about Strictly Come Dancing. Loads of photos, small biogs, stories etc. Have only glanced through it yet, but if I come across some good tid bits I'll share them with you.
Auds,- I get the feeling you are quite infatuated with GO. Am I right? From personal experience (she preens) I can tell you that those eyes are devastating up close !!! Another one going green !!
Carol,- don't give those germs to your lovely Ploppy. He deserves better !!

So sorry to hear you are not well, Shirley and Carol, here's to a quick recovery and thank heavens it's this weekend not next!
Have ben watching a lot of ADWD again (thanks again Carys) I'm sure it's been noticed before but GN wears yellow suit with red shirt in final, the GO and Keiths' colours and they were last 2. Not important I know but interesting.
Have recently had seasonal programme from my local theatre, they are putting on South Pacific, the production with Helena in it, has anyone seen it? Also they say that next Sept they are showing West Side Story, no cast list. Now bearing in mind they often tour productions before going into the west end I'm sure we could recommend someone for the lead!!
Hope you don't mind I took a peek at you all and you look lovely just as I knew you would.
Now off to Donnas' site,... and Eva I have never stopped being very jealous!!!!!

Ooh just read the interview in bliss. Purple (my favourite colour) is for luxury - I can go with that - I can be the luxury he CAN afford!!!!

Pink is for girls and he doesn't do girlie so Debbie, the pink fluffy slippers will have to go!!!!

Boy, the blog is quiet today & I need loppy brains at work. My sisloppy just left but while she was here she asked if the GO had ever appeared in a TV commercial. She swears she saw him in a Halls cough drop ad. Does this ring any bells with anyone? Or is it just wishful thinking (see, I knew she'd come around!)

Good afternoon, ladies. Anybody out there tonight? I am getting ready for my (now) regular Saturday night job as judge and jury on SCD. It's been a busy day, so I'm looking forward to a calm evening in front of the telly. What exiting lives we lead !! I am not complaining. I have some sweet memories to sustain me

Evening all. Just about catching up as very busy few days incl scollop not v well.

Maggie - I know we are miles from the sea but as ploppy says every single one of those miles is below sea level! In my first month after moving to England from Highlands over 20 years ago our whole village was flooded (river not sea) - had to abandon car and ploppy had to carry me home - except he abandoned me on a garden wall and went home for my wellies instead!

Maggie and maggie's ploppy - thanks so much for the photo album - it is absolutely great.

Gillian - thanks for the music - I have to admit to not having had time to listen yet but scollop will be tasked with transferring to my ipod tonight. Just had bad news on technical front that we cant get laptop as seemingly ploppy's work laptop cant work with a router (i dont understand any of this bit) and so he wouldnt be able to work one day a week at home. I am tempted to say so what but as he really loves not having the 4.5hrs daily commute one day a week will have to live with it and continue to fight over pc.

Eva - your lamb ribs and potatoes in oven - well actually they are mine but using your recipe.

Will miss Strictly tonight as off to a charity event. Not my idea of fun - sitting for 3 hours on church pew listening to amateur Elvis' but duty calls (and no debbie that is not ploppy's name). However recorded strictly so will watch when get home.

Have a good eve evryone

Eva-GO here, that stands for Green One in my case! I've been busy as well, Great Park is open again so I was charging around, scattering walkers left and right. It is amazing how quick some people can be when they see or hear us coming.
Geri-I don't remember eading anything about about that advert.
Karen-Purple is my favourite colour too. I have a lovely purple blouse for CiN night.
Pauline2-You have been concentrating. I hope you weren't scared by the photos.
All set for SCD judging duties.

Forgot to say hope ill loppies get well soon. You sound in similar state to scollop shilrey and he bounced back after just over day so hope you are all bouncing fit soon.

Forgot to ask has anyone seen the vids (from See) from Hairspray. Ben looks good, was the right part for him.

Jo4,- can you give us a link to that one. Would like to see how Ben is doing.
Fi,- hope the ribs and potatoes are a success. Try to enjoy your Elvis'es. If nothing else, they might be good for a laugh.
Well, here we are back from the Saturday job. Lots of good dancing tonight. For me Alesha & Natthew were tonight's stars. She sets off sparkles, that girl. I also think Letitia is so entertaining, but tonight wasn't her best. No sensuality in the salsa, plenty of rythm. I do vote for her though, because I want her to stay in the competition. Kate was awful tonight. Stomping about, trying to shake her shoulders,- looked like she had spasms. Not good at all.

Eva-I think this will get to the Hairspray vids. Let me know if it does not.
http://hairspraythemusical.co.uk/vid/video_V02.html

War has broken out again. Dog under table. Off to do some work now.

Jo4 - same here re war, when will it ever stop??? Btw - you could be my other colour pal for CiN night. Nicki already offered to wear purple for me - I think she settled on purple nail polish - very gothic, which I love!!!!!!!!!

Off to look at Hairspray vids.

Just popping up to say hello (spent an hour and a half pressing massive petticoat for K&I). Had an entertaining morning - did the shopping with Sloppy and Ploppy and then called into our wine bar for coffee (well Sloppy has coffe, Ploppy and I have a large glass of red) and Ploppy managed to empty his entire glass over me. Fortunate (advert coming here) had some Vanish at home and so the pale blue jumper and jeans I had on are now stain free! This is the second time he has done this to me in two weeks - do you think he is trying to tell me something? Just going to take some more cold remedy and will be having an early night to try and shake the germs off, so night night now and Sweet Meads all.

Karen-Of course I'll be your colour wearer at CiN (sounds like I'm going jousting, well, I've got the right horse). No nail polish, don't do it as it gets chipped off so easily. I really must work.

Jo4,- thank you for the link. It looks like a lot of fun. Maybe something to think about when the credit card has recovered from it's Joseph bashing !!!! We saw in ADWD that Ben is a very good dancer, so this role should suit him down to the ground.
Time to watch a bit of telly again.

Another invalided Loppy heading to bed. I have slept so many hours today I dont believe I am tired. oh but I am. Just seriously grateful that if I have to have this horrible bug that it is this weekend and not next. And while I expect to make a full recovery the same cannot be said of my phone which is showing all the signs of being terminally ill. Dont think it liked the cup of tea it got dropped into yesterday. Ploppy has very kindly told me to use his brand new Glofiish that had only just arrived and was still in its box. Glofiish now has my simcard installed and is on charge. Sadly I wont be internet connected on it, but as long as I can talk and text on it I will be happy.

Anyway I am off to my bed. Again. Good night all.

Carol & Shirley - sorry you're still feeling unwell - hope you have a good night's sleep and feel better in the morning.

Jo4 - thank you - with Nicki wearing the purple nail polish and you wearing the purple blouse I shall definitely feel a part of the evening. And whilst you're jousting if you could whisk the GO onto your horse and bring Him up to Yorkshire you will both get a very warm welcome!

Love the Hairspray clips - what a fun show - not as much fun as Joseph of course, but maybe that's got something to do with the leading man (much as I like Ben!!)

Good evening Ladies, I unfortunately have come across a problem with the way I have setup the picasa photo page for you Loppies.
By trying to keep the Loppie page and my personal pages separate it has worked out that either the Loppie site is viewable or My personal album site, but not both….so I will be making a small change that will allow us all to see the relevant albums by putting the Loppie album onto my site and locking my albums so as only to be visible to the people I invite and the Loppie album viewable by all.
Don’t worry you will see exactly the same pictures in exactly the same way But at a different address which I will post when the change is done.
Sorry for any inconvenience this may cause but I am only a mere mortal….this should be the end of the problems and I hope you all will be satisfied with the album as it grows. The Loppie page address you currently have will cease to work at 11pm this evening and I will then get to work so the site will back up in the morning and the new address posted on your blog.

P.s Maggie had an idea that you may want a second separate album for Holiday snaps or such like to share with other Loppies or even family? This is possible on the same link if you desire it, just let me know in the usual way.

Just watching Kylie and Geri's friend Jason is on! He's pushing his book.
Karen-I can see me cantering up to Yorkshire and being welcomed with open arms until my passenger has dismounted when he would be ushered in and me and horse left out in the garden. Anyway it is impractical as I've seen Lee has removed horse riding from his cv. Like many actors they add it to their cv and when they get a job with riding in it they come for a crash (not literally) course. Since I've been riding over the last few years I've seen 4 come for riding lessons for a part.
Maggies Ploppy-Thanks for the work with the pics. Sorry we are causing so much of it.
Yes Eva Hairspray did seem fun. It's not just the money it is the time.

Meant to say-Get well soon Carol and Shirley.
Nightlee night, really early start tomorrow.

Maggies Ploppy,- you are welcome to do whatever you need to keep our smiling, beautiful faces on the Internet. It wouldn't be the same without them. Just do what you have to do and tell us where to go ! and we'll do it. never thought I'd say that to a man !!!

Jo4 the problem was not caused by you ladies, just me trying to be clever and rushing things.
Anyway all should be OK tomorrow.

Eva it's not eveyday I get an offer like that from a strange woman either, I've gone all red

Aw Jo4, I wouldn't do that to you. Although, if you remember, I have a big ambition to go horse riding so you are welcome to my house - fridge and cupboard always well stocked with alcohol - whilst the GO and I borrow your horse and have riding lessons together!!!!!!

Am also watching Kylie - cringing at the CO - he should have pushed his book out the door and disappeared up his own......anyway, I was laughing my head off remembering Geri being nose to tush with him!!

Maggies's ploppy - what a good ploppy you are!! My ploppy just rolls his eyes at me when he sees me on laptop and I'm sure would not be as accommodating (sp?) as you obviously are! You are a star!!